PROMOTING "NATURE STUDY" IN SCHOOLS. 39
Mr. Robert Paulson, F.R.M.S., pointed out some of the difficulties in con-
nection with the practical work of Nature-Study in schools. He advocated
frequent change of specimens and seasonal exhibits of plants and insects, etc.
He considered a work-room or demonstration-room almost a necessity in a
museum, where teachers and children could actually work at the little problems
arising out of their studies in the museum and fields. What they wanted was to
encourage and develop habits of observation by the teachers and scholars
working in concert.
The Rev. W. C. Howell spoke of the great value of an encouragement of
a love of flowers in children.
Mr. Ping also referred to the refining influences of the observation of
natural objects on the minds of children, but it must be real first-hand experience of
the pupils themselves. He read some amusing so-called Nature-Study exercises
written by small boys, which showed the folly of second-hand teaching.
Mr. W. Cole said that in the scheme of management of the Essex Natural
History Museum at Stratford he had suggested the use of a demonstration room
supplemental to the Museum itself, and also taking out the children to Epping
Forest or elsewhere for observation in the field. The scheme had been passed by
the Education Committee, and the necessary expenditure sanctioned, but at the
last moment the association of teachers had raised objections, and the scheme
was at present in abeyance.
Dr. Graham, E.Sc. (Medical Inspector of Schools at West Ham), thought
that their efforts at first must be to enthuse the teachers with an interest in
Nature-Study, and through them reach the children. He advocated as material
for Nature teaching the common birds and insects found in both towns and
villages.
Miss Hall, M.A. (Principal of the Loughton Secondary School), referred to the
inferiority of many of the so-called "Nature-Study" books. They were best
burnt.
Mr. F. W. Rudler, I.S.O., F.G.S., advocated the employment of specimens
other than botanical,
The Rev. H. Bird thought that on certain stated afternoons a lecturer should
be present to instruct parties of pupils.
Mr. Chittenden (Superintendent of the Research Laboratory of the Royal
Horticultural Society) laid great stress on Nature-Study being a method, not a
subject.
Mr. Webb replied to some of the remarks of the speakers.
Mr. Dymond proposed the warmest thanks of the meeting should be given to
Mr. Webb for his excellent paper, a proposal which was carried by acclamation.
Luncheon was taken in the Tourist Room, and afterwards a series of Demon-
strations were given in the Educational and Science Sections, by Mr. Nicholas,
Mr. Webb, Mr. Rudler, Dr. Graham, and other expert members of the party.
A series of the catalogues and pamphlets published by the various
"sections" was placed upon the table of the meeting-room and will be preserved
in the Club's Library.
On Saturday afternoon, February 20th, 1909, the Council of
the Club held a Reception of the members of the "West Ham