This thesis is a study of the evolution of educational philosophy underlying the modern program of industrial arts with particular emphasis upon the contributions of John Locke. The problem is limited to the study of the philosophy and theories of Locke with a brief coverage of Greek, [mediaeval], and modern periods of philosophy. It is impossible to cover in detail all the works of the three historical periods. Only the important general aspects which have a direct bearing on Locke and his influence upon industrial arts are discussed in detail in this study.

In order to provide an understanding of the curricula of the colleges and universities active in the training of occupational therapists and to assist in gaining knowledge from their experience, this study attempts to analyze the training program of all these schools. The available information, as well as a resulting "connecting thread" in these different curricula, will aid any college or university that wishes to accept the challenge of the aforementioned demand in establishing an outstanding department of occupational therapy.