| This study examines the career of W. H. Swift from a biographical standpoint. Swift's professional career spanned over six decades covering work as a teacher and educator of teachers, school inspector, author, educational administrator, and eventually, senior public servant, as Deputy Minister of Education for the Province of Alberta. He had direct experience with, and was a major influence on, many of the major changes in educational philosophy and practice in the Province, particularly from an administrative perspective. It was perhaps his vantage point as both educator and administrator at the Normal School and governmental levels, that allowed him his unique view of Alberta's overall educational landscape.;This dissertation provides a much needed multidimensional view of a man whose career has encompassed all aspects of the educational experience in Alberta from the late 1920's and the "progressive 30's" through the war years to the revolutionary and turbulent 1960's. Swift's administrative style is analyzed as are the character traits which helped make up his unique personality. Further, the dissertation provides insight into the educational bureaucracy of the social credit government and the values and attitudes that governed its view of education from the mid 1930s up to Swift's retirement as Deputy Minister of Education in 1966. Finally, it examines a native son, born and educated in Alberta, who rose through the ranks and had "hands on" experience as student, teacher, administrator, and public servant. It is hoped this study will not only illuminate the varied career of W. H. Swift, but also show how his work directly influenced education in Alberta, both through curriculum and administration. |
