Formation of the Modern Concept of Research Education: From New Age to a Knowledge Society

The present article considers the cultural and historical background and genesis of the research education concept from the perspective of the knowledge society development. Ideas and educational practices linking educational activities and research studies both in the higher and secondary schools are presented. It is stated that research education is becoming a mission not only of a specific university but also of a specific school. Such education requires the successive cognitive development of a personality. In this connection, there occurs the process of forming educational partnerships of schools, universities and research organizations. Examples of educational activities in Russia, the United States, and Western Europe are given. The conclusion has been made that at the end of the 20th century there appears an educational institution of a research type – the University and school - which uses the cognition methods inherent in a scientific search, is institutionalized in cluster-network forms and is based upon an educational innovation system.