Educational System in Ancient Rome
Rome has a long, illustrious history, and during its long and complex history, education in Rome went through many iterations. Education during Ancient Rome was an extension of the traditional Roman culture that stressed the importance of learning and culture. Ancient Rome was one of the few ancient civilizations to have formal systems of education through a dual system of education – private and public.
Private Education in Ancient Rome
In Ancient Rome, private education was very common. Children received private education at home, often from their mother who taught them the basics of reading and writing. Wealthier children had Greek tutors which focused on more advanced philosophical concepts and knowledge. Boys more often received formal education in rhetoric, mathematics and philosophy and went to school. Courses such as Latin grammar, history, and poetry were offered not only in a school but even in the military.
Public Education in Ancient Rome
Public education in Ancient Rome was provided through a system of tuition-free elementary schools, or, ‘ludi magisterri’, run by priests and teacher-scholars. Typically situated in city homes and workshops, the ludi magisterri were funded by the government and provided basic education in verbal and numerical literacy and the Roman culture to all children.
Admissions Process in Ancient Rome
Admissions to the private schools were largely restricted to citizens who were of a certain socio-economic class and had to take entrance exams. These entrance exams were also conducted to assess the student’s grammar and knowledge of literature as well for college or university admissions. The most elite schools in Rome also conducted interviews to assess the applicant’s suitability for a prestigious school.
Teaching Style in Ancient Rome
In Ancient Roman schools, the teacher had the role of emphasizing excellence, character, and the strict adherence to the ancient Roman way of life. Ancient Roman teachers were known to be very strict and disciplined and they instilled the same values in the students. Students were expected to have great respect for their teachers and to memorize texts, produce written essays as well as recitation in Latin.
Assessment System in Ancient Rome
Ancient Roman students were assessed through written exams, oral recital, and public performances. Teachers used the questions in written exams to assess the student’s knowledge in subjects such as literature, mathematics, and philosophy. Oral recitals were used to assess the student’s knowledge in Latin, Greek, and other languages as well as their logistical capabilities.
Role of Parents in Ancient Rome
Parents in Ancient Rome also expected their children to excel in school and expected to get involved in the education of their children. Parents whose children went to school would offer guidance and mentorship to their children, encouraging and motivating them to use their educational resources to the fullest extent.
University Education in Ancient Rome
University education in Ancient Rome was quite extensive and respected. University education was highly valued in Ancient Rome and the most prominent universities in Rome were the University of Rome, the University of Capua and the University of Naples. These universities offered a wide range of courses, including literature, mathematics, philosophy and rhetoric.
The Impact of Education on Ancient Rome
Education in Ancient Rome was essential to creating a well-rounded Roman citizen. It was the primary way to gain knowledge and elevate one’s socio-economic status. Education had a major impact on the well-being of the Roman civilization and propelled their society forward in many areas, including literature and technology.
Conclusion
In conclusion, education was an important part of life in Ancient Rome and many citizens went to formal school. Higher learning institutions such as the universities of Rome, Capua and Naples also flourished, producing well-educated citizens who were able to make positive contributions to the Roman civilization.
