“Pedagogical Journey through Europe” by Ushinsky: scientific expedition as the foundation of Russian didactics The journey of Konstantin Dmitrievich Ushinsky (1824–1870) through European countries in 1862–1867, undertaken during a difficult period of his retirement from the position of inspector of Smolny Institute, was neither a tourist trip nor forced emigration. It was the first large-scale scientific-pedagogical expedition in the history of Russia, a targeted comparative study, the results of which were systematically presented in his fundamental work “Pedagogical Journey through Europe”. This work laid the methodological foundations of Russian pedagogy as a proof-based science, based not on speculative theories, but on meticulous analysis of practice. 1. Historical context and goals of the expedition. Ushinsky set off for Europe during the era of the Great Reforms under Alexander II, when the question of creating a new, secular, mass national school was acutely felt. Existing pedagogical approaches were either dogmatically church-based or mechanically borrowed from the West. Ushinsky’s goal was a comparative analysis to synthesize the advanced European experience with due consideration of Russian national characteristics. The route of his journey was methodical: Switzerland, Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Belgium. He visited not only capitals but also provincial schools, studying the system at all levels — from folk schools and vocational schools to universities and pedagogical seminaries. His interests included: The organization of school affairs and legislation. Teaching methods (especially primary education). Teacher preparation. Women’s education. The relationship between universal and national in education. 2. Research methodology: from empiricism to theory. Ushinsky applied a comprehensive approach that anticipated the principles of modern case study: Direct observation: He spent hours in classrooms, noting not only what was taught but also how: the tea ... Read more