The Jesuit approach to competition in the education system in the modern period, based on the Ratio Studiorum

Abstract

Aim. The aim of the article is to show the systemic approach of the Jesuits to the issue of competition in the education process in the modern period. The historical context in which the Jesuits developed their school system was introduced, as well as the process of escalating the popularity of their schools in modernity.

Methods. The text is based on the source which is the main document describing the educational doctrine of the Jesuit Order — Ratio Studiorum. In addition, the author relies on the literature on the subject: scientific studies on the history of the order and the history of the creation of the Ratio Studiorum, as well as the role of competition in upbringing and education. Moreover, the source revealed to the researcher an important element stimulating the spirit of competition, i.e. the system of penalties and rewards, and the way of appreciating the best students.

Results and conclusions. The result of the work is the conclusion that the Jesuits attached great importance to competition in the upbringing of young boys, and stimulated their development through a system of punishments and rewards.

Cognitive value. The dissertation presents one of the program elements of Jesuit education in modern Europe, and may constitute an element for broader research on the history of the order and the history of education.