“Education” is a word that has made me very curious & kindred my interest the past few months.
What is Education? What kind of Education should children get? Is our present system of Education worth it? What is the present context or purpose of Education?
In my search for these answers, I got an idea. Why not make a series of posts on Education and get feedback on it.
My first question to everyone is “What is the present purpose of Education”?
My thoughts: To introduce the child to various subjects, make them cram for higher marks and exams and make them eligible to get a job.
My next question is: “What should be the ideal purpose of Education?“
My thoughts: “To make the child an individual. To make the child capable of understanding life, take decisions, be curious about various subjects (rather than memorise everything), discover answers, be independent, to have enough confidence and wisdom to handle life and people and ultimately help the society for its progress. To make the child rational and intelligent. To help develop their personality.“
My definition would just go on.
I would love to hear from you all.
Once I get all your answers, I will make a comprehensive list of it. With that list, can we make a shift from our present purpose to our ideal purpose? How can we make the shift? What would be the first steps for it? What changes need to be brought in each parent, teacher & school to bring about this change?
Meanwhile, there is a wonderful site: http://geniuschildren.org/ based on Dr. Glenn Doman’s research to teach a child reading, maths, general knowledge etc. I am sure parents, teachers and educationists will find this site very interesting and informative.
This is a very interesting project I want to kick off. Each thought, step & increase in our awareness will bring greater tides in the society.
With this hope I make my first steps in this Education series.
Interesting post! These profound questions can’t be answered unless researched well but I will make a sincere attempt to answer them nonetheless.
1. What is the present purpose of education?
To conform to social norms. The present education system focusses mainly on the ’social’ aspect missing the other significant characteristics.
2. What should be the ideal purpose of Education?
To make the child develop a personality of his own and help him become a free-thinker with a good deal of emotional honesty that prepares him to face anything in life with equanimity. The ideal of education should be to impose a lesson for an entire life.
Can’t wait to read others’ responses and ideas. Keep the great thoughts coming! Cheers!
Comment by rampantheart — November 17, 2009 @ 1:10 pm |
@Ranjani:
Thanks for your answers. You touch an important aspect of our present education. Focusing on “social conformity”. We are always taught to colour within the lines.
This reminds me of the movie “Taare Zameen Par” which brought out the significance of imagination and concept of non-conformity (it can be applied to every child).
//Facing life with equanimity
So true. That’s an essential aspect to Education.
Thanks for your inputs.
Comment by Saraswathi Mukkai — November 17, 2009 @ 2:05 pm |