Mary Baker Eddy's contribution to adult education: An historical biography

The purpose of this study was to illuminate the contribution of women scholars to the field of adult education by focusing on one particular Victorian-era woman's contribution as an educator of adults in late 19th century America, Mary Baker Eddy. This research employed an interpretive biographical approach for this historical educational study.;An overview of the literature frames the historical, social, and educational contexts for Mary Baker Eddy and her Massachusetts Metaphysical College. Beginning with a survey of adult and higher education in 19th century America, the chapter highlights 19th century women in two infrequent circumstances: their presence in higher education, and as business owners. Mary Baker Eddy was occupied both of these positions.;This study was conducted primarily using interpretive biography as applied to historical research in education. Data were analyzed through the lenses of Feminism and Progressivism as they relate to this study.;Six primary themes emerged from an examination of Eddy's correspondence: Boston, Chicago, the entrepreneurial spread of Christian Science, qualifications for teachers of Christian Science, respectability and acceptance, and women's issues. These six themes were selected for their cultural, institutional, and personal elements in relation to Eddy's life and times. Providing such a context for a research subject's personal themes and life choices is critical both in historical research and in life history research.;This dissertation provides a highlighted focus on Eddy's unique contribution to the field of adult education. It is notable that this field of study was not even distinguished as a separate entity within the field of education until 1926. Yet the system of education established by this Victorian-era woman embraces many of the practices that today are defining elements of the adult education discipline. This study demonstrates that Mary Baker Eddy's contribution to the field of Adult Education is so significant she should be called the Mother of Adult Education.