Survey Question (Raquel)
What is the definition of education?
I’m curious about variety and overlap of opinions in the readership of this blog. If you have an opinion about the answer please post it in the comments. Summaries would be nice, but feel free to add a long winded explanation. Oh, and James and Seth–I know you’ll find something to argue about in each other definitions. When you do, could you have the discussion sometime when I can listen in but without posting a gazillion comments on the blog? (Yes, I know you would anyway, but it’s more fun to ask.)
Education is the process of teaching someone how to discern the truth.
I am now going to assert that everyone thinks that this is the definition of education. The important bits that need to be defined, of course, are “process”, “discern” and “truth”.
My mother-in-law used to say “All of life is education.” I think that is a good definition.
EDUCA’TION, n. [L. educatio.] The bringing up, as of a child, instruction; formation of manners. Education comprehends all that series of instruction and discipline which is intended to enlighten the understanding, correct the temper, and form the manners and habits of youth, and fit them for usefulness in their future stations. To give children a good education in manners, arts and science, is important; to give them a religious education is indispensable; and an immense responsibility rests on parents and guardians who neglect these duties.
[syn: discipleship]
As I grow older, I like to think in terms of discipleship instead of education. “Education” leads us to abstract the cognitive processes from the rest of life. “Discipleship” is leading people into the fullness of life.
Discipleship means equipping someone for the great adventure of following Christ. It means Biblical ethics, worldview, methods and mindset. It entails developing character, spirit and mind, gifts and talents for the Master’s use.
Education says, “Know this.”
Discipleship says, “Follow me as I follow Christ.”