The reformer in the field of educational organization Helen Parkhurst and her Dalton-plan

The problem of improving the level of teaching in the field of general and vocational education is one of the most significant in modern pedagogy. In this regard, domestic and foreign didactics carefully study the legacy of their outstanding predecessors, - teachers of the past. Among such scientists who have left a unique mark in pedagogical science and practice is the American teacher Helen Parkhurst (1886-1973). Materials and methods . Research methods, - analysis of historical and pedagogical, methodological and fiction literature on the research topic, biographical, historical and comparative methods, axiological (value) approach to the study of methodological innovations by H. Parkhurst. Results. The article shows the significance of her methodological heritage, characterizes the idea of the Dalton plan put forward by her, and provides feedback about it from a number of scientists. The article contains little-known details of the biography of H. Parkhurst. Her educational activity and didactic views are described in detail. The influence of her works on the development of education throughout the world is revealed. Special attention is paid to the characteristics of the introduction of her idea of the Dalton plan in the USSR in the 1920s-early 1930s. The article is written in connection with the 135th anniversary of the birth of H. Parkhurst. Conclusion. The conclusion is made about the value of methodological ideas of H. Parkhurst and the possibilities of their use in modern educational practice.