The Seven Laws of Teaching - Softcover

John Milton Gregory's clear and concise presentation of the fundamental laws of teaching has been studied and applied in a variety of educational situations, from church schools to in-service programs of prestigious businesses. For generations, teachers have benefited from the solid advice in this book. The frequent reprintings of this classic work, first published in 1884, testify to the timelessness of its contents. Educational fads come and go, but the basic principles of teaching and learning, those discussed in this book, are not subject to the winds of change. "For succinct, usable material on the art of teaching, this book, in our judgment, cannot be surpassed."-The Christlife Magazine "This is one of the most splendid books ever put in print on the art of teaching."-Calvary Bookstore, New York "Here is the psychology of teaching at its best."-The Fellowship Baptist "Teachers will find in this handbook . . . far more practical help than they would find in a more technical presentation."-Review and Expositor "It summarizes beautifully and systematically the seven factors that are present in every instance of true teaching."-The Banner "It will be a wise pastor or Christian education director who will require Sunday school teachers to read this book."-Bibliotheca Sacra "Unexcelled as an aid to teaching any subject whatsoever and any individual or group."-Biblical Research Monthly

The life of John Milton Gregory (1822–1898) was marked by a profound love for teaching; he was an educational leader of his generation.

At the age of seventeen, Gregory became a district-school teacher; three years later he enrolled in Union College, New York; and after graduating in 1846 he entered the Christian ministry. In 1852, after a brief pastorate, he left the ministry and was appointed principal of a classical school in Detroit, Michigan. In 1854 he was a founder and the first editor of the "Michigan Journal of Education." In 1858 he was elected state superintendant of public instruction, and in 1864 he became president of Kalamazoo College.

In 1868, however, Dr. Gregory undertook the great work of his life, organizing the newly established Illinois State Industrial University, at Champaign, now called the University of Illinois. In his inaugural address, he stated that the University must offer "a full table spread with every form of human knowledge, and bid freely to the feast."

As the first regent of the University, Gregory provided a "liberal and practical education to the industrial classes." When asked, "What is practical?" he answered, "Brains are practical. The most practical thing on earth is brain power—the power to see, reason, and understand. And so that education is most practical which most develops brain power—power to perceive, judge, and act."

The University of Illinois calls Dr. Gregory the "Father of the University," and as the "Father," Gregory asked that his body be laid to rest within the campus. The school complied with his request; his epitaph says, "If you seek my memorial, look about you."