Chapter 476 Development of Private Schools (4)_1
"It seems that Miss Lin’s private school places a particular emphasis on both cultural and martial prowess?" Mei Hanqing asked, his eyes eagerly settling on Lin Ziyin.
"I value the cultivation of morality more." Lin Ziyin replied, "In the academy, we encourage every student to strive for holistic development in morality, intelligence, physical fitness, aesthetics, and labor. Also, we allow students to capitalize on their strengths according to their personal traits, and encourage them to engage in social practice outside school during holiday and spare time."
"What is social practice?" Mei Hanqing asked, puzzled. He had heard the term for the first time, and expected Lin Ziyin to clarify it for him.
"Reading thousands of books is not as useful as traveling thousands of miles. Practical application of knowledge is another teaching philosophy we advocate in our school." Lin Ziyin responded, then gave a brief introduction of the subjects taught in the academy, as well as their usual teaching methods.
Mei Hanqing became increasingly excited as he listened. He was not obstinate nor did he subscribe to the outdated ideologies of the old scholars from Daqin. The approach to education presented by Lin Ziyin was more appropriate for the Northern Land.
"I brought you here so you could study at the academy," said Chu Suifeng. "In the future, the academy in Shili Village will develop further. Many of my subordinates’ children have already been enrolled."
"Yes, my Prince." Mei Hanqing replied respectfully. Even without the Prince’s command, he would have endeavored to learn. After all, his most pressing concern was to cultivate capable and practical talents for the Prince.
The Northern Land near Border City was in a precarious position, with the ruthless Tatars to the north and the predatory Imperial Court to the south. The Prince’s plans were bound to cause unrest. If every student nurtured by the academies in the Northern Land could be both scholarly and martial, it would undoubtedly be the best return to the Prince.
"Dong, dong, dong." A deep bell toll echoed, and soon, a crowd of children ran out from the courtyards. They were boys and girls, each with a face brimming with joy and confidence.
"Does your school admit girls too?" Mei Hanqing puzzledly asked.
"In my view, boys and girls are equal." Lin Ziyin replied, unwilling to delve into gender equality with someone from a different era, "In fact, I believe that girls might be even more resilient than boys."