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(8) THE TECHNICAL INSTITUTE ".
The use of the title "Technical Institute" to describe the varied evening courses held by the Education Department, is extremely awkward when a system of actual Technical Education is being evolved. Much confusion and explanation would be saved if the title "Technical Institute" could be changed, especially as all the really "Technical courses will be absorbed in the new system.
Provided due allowance is made for the special conditions under which the proposed Part Time Trade and Lecture courses are run, there would not appear to be any need to disturb the organisation of the "Technical Institute."
Technical Institute." Assuming that this title is replaced by some such title as Evening Continuation Classes" it is suggested that the classes be divided into two groups under their Director as follows:--
Director of Evening Continuation Classes.
General Group.
Technical Group.
English.
French.
Book Keeping, etc.
Part Time (Trade) Courses. Part Time (Lecture) Courses.
The Principal, Trade and Technical Schools, would act as Supervisor for the Technical Group, and carry out the work of organisation, while fees and emoluments would pass to the Director as at present.
(9) MANUAL TRAINING IN DISTRICT SCHOOLS.
In pursuance of the Report on Practical Technical Education, with reference to the introduction of some form of manual training in the English Schools, it must be remembered that the object of such training is entirely different from that of a similar course in a Trade School. At an English School no attempt should be made to teach a trade with the idea that the student will eventually earn his living at that trade. The training is intended to promote careful working, power of observa- tion, and accuracy of hand and eye: skill in the use of tools follows these as a natural sequence. It is felt that a course in simple joinery is best adapted to these ends, and that, as far as is consistent with accurate work and general convenience, the Chinese type of tools should be used.
The question of Instructional Staff is dealt with under that heading.
It is understood that certain schools possess a room suitable for use as a Joiner's Shop. A survey should be made of existing accommodation and, when instructors become available, a start should be made in those schools where accommodation already exists.
It is suggested that one period of two hours per week is enough for a student at an English School to spend in the Joiner's Shop.
(10) THE TEACHING OF ENGLISH.
The question of whether Egnlish should be taught in the various Technical Schools, and if so, to what extent, is a problem which can only be solved as the development of the various courses proceeds.