Education: Meaning and Concept
Education, in its general sense, refers to a process of learning. It encompasses the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and values by a group of individuals through various stages of teaching, training, and research.
The term “education” is broad and is derived from the Sanskrit word “śikṣā,” which means to learn, understand, or administer. In Sanskrit, education is referred to as “vidya,” signifying the development of one’s character and enhancing self-confidence through the acquisition of knowledge.
Philosophy of Education
With the passage of time, the philosophy of education also evolves. In ancient times, the methods for obtaining and evaluating education were significantly different from today’s era. Education never teaches us to impart knowledge and then evaluate its worth. The objective of education is to train all members of society, keeping in mind the benefits to society, and recognize the necessary changes over time. Key points include:
1. Traditional Education : –
It necessitates describing the history of a subject in any discipline. Historical aspects must be demonstrated because while children can learn by observation, some things present in the world can only be understood through historical knowledge.
2. Scientific Education: –
Scientific education advocates that education should prepare an individual and society with attention to their development. We must also consider how an educated individual will find employment after gaining education.
3. Progressive Education: –
Education should be according to the child’s capability, where the teacher’s contribution is crucial. The teacher should understand the child’s nature and guide them appropriately.
Education: Aim and Objective
The aim of obtaining education is to understand why and how to achieve it. This involves a philosophical approach, as we pursue education to achieve self-defined goals. There are two prime objectives of a good education system:
1. Personal Development: –
The main aim of education should be the physical, mental, and moral development of an individual. The primary objective is to make children self-reliant and instill self-confidence, nurturing them physically and mentally.
2. Societal and National Development: –
Education should impart the sense of one’s duties towards the nation and society. The social objective of education is essential because every individual is a part of society and should understand their responsibilities towards it. Education plays a significant role in society, helping individuals adapt to scientific and technological advancements over time. It assists individuals in making correct decisions and protects them from taking the wrong path. A lack of education impedes complete personal development. In today’s technological era, education guides humanity correctly and prevents deviation. Education eradicates the shortcomings of society and aligns us with the new era.
Importance of Education in the Modern Era
In the modern era, every individual aims to achieve success in their field, making education essential. An educated person is capable of choosing the right path.
If a person does not know how to read and write, they become deprived of new knowledge from society.
For societal development, the advancement of education is critical because the knowledge about an educated society stems from its educated members. In the 21st century, human beings have become more technologically advanced. It is the era of computers, and every task is accomplished with the help of computers. If a person lacks knowledge of this new technology, they feel left behind in this modern era. Nowadays, all types of information can be accessed anytime and anywhere with the use of computers. Tasks that took months to complete can now be finished in less time. Both men and women can receive education at home. All countries have recognized the importance of education and hence aim to educate their citizens. Girls receive proper education and are rewarded for achieving good grades. Women, who previously questioned their stance, now pursue good careers with education.
Educated men and women can think about their family’s better future.
In societies lacking education, people’s lives resemble that of animals as they engage in constant conflicts. Education is essential for the progress of all nations. It provides continuous direction to students, eradicating society’s shortcomings and fostering social progress.