Knowledge sharing was revolutionized by the introduction in the 15th century with the invention of the printing press. Previously books were made by hand, costly and scarce and only available to academically trained and religious leaders. The printing press was used to produce books more cheaply and within less time than before making information more accessible throughout society.
The literacy levels went up as people had access to books. Individuals belonging to diverse social classes had an opportunity to gain the knowledge to read and write. Easy access to the textbooks as well as reference materials became more available in the schools/universities. This access laid a platform to more comprehensive learning and better education levels within societies.
Ideas propagated faster with the help of the printing press. Scientific discovery, literature, and philosophic ideologies were fast spreading. Researchers were in a position to expand on the work of others and this promoted intellectual development. This high rate of exchanging knowledge led to great development of cultures and sciences in the Renaissance.
The quality of education was enhanced as text intended in standardized and printed form. Manuscripts that were written by hand were prone to mistakes but books that were printed were accurate. Content was consistent and both teachers and students were able to access it enabling the creation of structured curricula and dependable learning materials. This system provided the basis of the present day education practices.
Conclusion
The printing press revolutionized education by making knowledge more accessible, providing more literacy, and helping people intellectually. It eliminated the boundaries established by costly handwritten manuscripts, common educational issues, and allowed ideas to be propagated at an unprecedented scheme creating a permanent legacy on education and sharing of information.
