BED 101 - Lecture 01 - What is Education

BED 101 – Introduction to Education

Instructor Background

  • Kavinda Wijethunga

  • Qualifications:

    • N. Dip. in Teaching (Math.) (NIE)

    • B. Sc. (First class - Gold Medal) (RUSL)

    • PGDE (OUSL)

    • PGDSE (UOP)

    • M.Sc. (Sci. Edu.) (UOP)

    • M.Phil. (Edu.) (UOP)

    • PhD (Edu.) (UOP) (Reading)

Course Description

  • Course Code: BED 101

  • Course Title: Introduction to Education

  • Total Credit: 03

  • Total Theory Classes: 24 hours

  • Evaluation:

    • Attendance: 06 marks

    • Continuous Assessments: 24 marks

    • Mid-Assignment: 30 marks

    • Final Examination: 40 marks

    • Total: 100 marks

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand that education is a complex concept.

  • Differentiate between education and training.

  • Know various definitions of education.

  • Identify similarities and differences between these definitions.

  • Deduce general objectives from these definitions.

  • Appreciate the philosophical value of education.

  • Explain the educational needs for the 21st century.

What is Education?

Definition and Scope

  • Education is a lifelong process beginning at birth.

  • Early childhood is crucial as it influences later educational experiences.

  • Education encompasses public schooling from early years to higher education.

Goals of Education

  • Education shifts focus from public gains to individual benefits.

  • In the initial years, compulsory education aims to prevent social issues by developing good citizens.

  • According to Durkheim (1956), education influences younger generations to prepare them for social life.

  • Education seeks to develop intellectual skills, physical capabilities, and moral values necessary for societal demands.

Evolving Concept of Education

  • The nature of education is constantly evolving, influenced by societal needs and practices.

  • Knowledge acquisition is central, but it raises the question of whether knowledge alone defines an educated person.

Philosophical Perspectives

  • John Dewey (1897)

    • Advocated for education to focus on current life rather than merely preparing for the future.

    • Stressed moral training and community aspects of education.

  • Moore (2010)

    • Emphasized societal commitment to cultivating desirable individual traits and values.

  • Russel (1926)

    • Suggested education should nurture capabilities and prepare individuals for societal roles.

Key Definitions of Education

Etymology of Education

  • Derived from Latin:

    • Educare: ‘to bring out’ or ‘to nourish’

    • Educere: ‘to lead out’ or ‘to draw out’

    • Educatum: ‘act of teaching’ or ‘training’

    • Pedagogy: Greek term used synonymously with education.

Perspectives from Prominent Thinkers

  • Socrates:

    • Emphasized self-awareness and the importance of realizing one's ignorance.

    • Advocated for critical questioning and personal conclusions.

  • Plato:

    • Viewed education as a means to develop moral individuals and useful societal members.

    • Suggested education is about uncovering inherent talents rather than filling minds with knowledge.

  • Rousseau:

    • Proposed that education should foster natural goodness and be child-centered.

    • Education should develop a child's abilities in a nurturing environment.

The Role of Teachers and Learning Environment

  • Teachers should create an atmosphere of warmth, respect, and collaboration.

  • They must guide students toward leadership roles and value their ideas and opinions.

  • Continuous learning and adaptation in teaching strategies are essential for effective education.

Conclusion

  • Education is a dynamic and multifaceted concept integral to individual and societal development.

  • Understanding various perspectives and definitions enriches the educational discourse.

  • Students should engage in exploring concepts of education to develop their definitions and approaches to teaching.