Often, education becomes little more than schooling. Progressive education becomes an attempt to teach a subject or skill, neglecting experience. Some experiences are damaging and mis-educative, which stunts growth and impedes further experience. Education often drifts into containment or entertainment, where involvement in the immediate activity is the central concern and little attention is given to broadening horizons. That’s unfortunate, since this approach has not been very effective in alleviating poverty and hunger.
Horace Mann is considered the father of education
Horace Mann was a social reformer and politician. He served as secretary of the state’s first state board of education in 1837. His role in this era marked the beginning of a progressive trend in public education. The Common School Movement was born in the 1830s, and social reformers pushed for a more secular, public school system. Horace Mann was hailed as the father of the common school. He faced many challenges in society during the 19th century, and his ideas were influential enough to influence the education system in many states.
It is a form of teaching and learning
The principles of individual learning promote efficiency, systematic approach, independence of mind, and personal responsibility. The selection of the topic and approach to the task are determined by the students’ shared interests and concerns. A common objective is set and passed on to all students. The methods and techniques used to achieve these objectives vary greatly from discipline to discipline. Some teaching methods, such as guided exploration, require the students to contribute and make suggestions.
It fosters understanding and an appreciation of emotions and feelings
While education is often associated with a lack of emotion, this is far from the truth. Education aims to foster sensitivity and understanding of emotions that can be applied to improve our lives. As Karl Marx famously said, “All social life is practical,” and while philosophers have interpreted the world in countless ways, we are only human. Our aim as educators is to help us change the world. Development of understanding of an experience is one thing; wanting to change it requires commitment.
It helps eradicate poverty and hunger
Many countries are beginning to realize the benefits of a high-quality education. Statistical data show that children with basic literacy skills could escape extreme poverty. In addition, if all adults in the world completed secondary education, the global poverty rate could be cut in half. The United Nations has even designated quality education as one of their Sustainable Development Goals. In addition to its economic benefits, education also helps eradicate poverty and hunger by ensuring that children grow up to have better lives.
It helps develop communication skills
Effective communication is a skill that is crucial in a number of ways. It is especially important for leaders, who set a good example for others by being open and honest. Open and honest communicators are more likely to work together, compromise when necessary, and confront challenging situations with confidence. Good communicators also learn to communicate without assuming what others are thinking or feeling. Assuming someone’s intent can lead to conflict and misunderstandings.
