meaning purposive education essay outline

Meaning Purposive Education

• November 5, 2022
• CSS , Css Essays , CSS Solved Essays , PMS , PMS Essays
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CSS 2021 Solved Essay | Meaning Purposive Education | CSS and PMS Solved Essays by Sir Syed Kazim Ali Students

Safeena Zahoor  attempts the essay on the given pattern, which Sir  Syed Kazim Ali  teaches his students, who have consistently been qualifying their CSS and PMS essays. Sir Syed Kazim Ali has been Pakistan’s top English writing and CSS, PMS essay and precis coach with the highest success rate of his students. The essay is uploaded to help other competitive aspirants learn and practice essay writing techniques and patterns.

• Introduction 
• Understanding the term purposive education 
• Significance of purposive education for a state
• What is purposive education meant to be?

a. Meaning of purposive education in the social sphere

• Case in point: High literacy rate, less racial prejudices and discrimination- case of Netherlands
• ✓ Removing cultural lag by changing dogmas of society
• Case in point: Putting an end to the anti-technological movement, Neo-Luddism

b. Meaning of purposive education in the political sphere

• Case in point :  Lolly Daskal and Dawid Rowan, Social Media activists and writers 
• Case in point: 97 per cent voter turnout in the Turkmenistan presidential election in 2022, and 98 per cent voter turnout in Laos’s parliamentary election in 2021

c. Meaning of purposive education in the economic sphere

• Case in point :  USA, Sweden, and Germany benefit greatly from entrepreneurship after a shift towards a service economy.
• Case in point : one year of education is associated with a ten per cent increase in wages- UNESCO

d. Meaning of purposive education in the education and technical sphere

• Case in point: Employment in STEM education is projected to grow 8.8 per cent by 2028; meanwhile, non-STEM to grow by five per cent – United States Department of labour
• Case in point : ENGIE, the world’s leading supplier of energy efficiency services, helps companies transition to carbon-free energy by employing digital twin simulation solutions 
• What are the prospects of Purposive education ?
• ✓ Fair terms and policies in the socio-economic and political system ensure a new legacy of success
• ✓ A trained workforce meets the requirement of a knowledge-based economy
• ✓ Boost job growth through STEM projects
•  How to underpin purposive education? 
• ✓ To introduce a uniform modern syllabus
• ✓ To provide trained and skilled faculty 
• ✓ To eliminate rote learning and promote a critical thinking approach
• ✓ To make vocational and training institution centres more efficient
• ✓ To promote a critical thinking approach in schools 
• ✓ To increase the number of research and development centres
• Critical analysis

Education, the kindling of the flame, is the permanent character of human history from darkness to light and the evolution of thoughts from ashes to the phoenix. It has remained the most powerful tool for securing growth and progress in the socioeconomic and political realm . The experiences of Europe and America, which have been extensively studied, bring out the pervasive role of education in facilitating and sustaining the development goals of the nations . Therefore, education, undoubtedly, has proven an essential prerequisite for societal change. Its role has been purposive as it looks toward creating newer intellectual minds ready to bring positive change in their respective societies. Moreover, such an education means streaming the mind’s consciousness to eliminate cultural dogmas. It further denotes strong leadership that acts as a light in the dark tunnel of socio-economic backwardness. Above all, it connotes providing zeal to cope with the advancement of science and technology, without which human existence is inconvincible. By stimulating the cores of society, education plain sails the new legacy of success by mainstreaming fair-term socioeconomic policies, crystalizing a trained workforce to meet a knowledge-based economy, and perpetuating the sense of national cohesion among the masses. However, to underpin the purposive education and surface it on natural ground, specifically in the era of modernization, there is a dire need to establish vocational institutions, increase the number of research centres, and promote a critical thinking approach by eliminating rot learning in the schools. The essay construes the meaning of purposive education in socioeconomic and political realms. Also, it highlights the prospects of purposive education and provides the framework to scale it up by tangible means.

 Before encapsulating what purposive education means to be, it is imperative to understand purposive education in its true essence. There is no denying the fact that education discerns humans from other creations. Similarly, Purposive education is a powerful directed weapon that shapes and frames individuals and society to disseminate the truth of their existence.  Bertrand Russell firmly believes that purposive education forms the basis of ideal characters: vitality, courage, sensitiveness, and intelligence.  Therefore, it is considered a necessary precondition of social change that aims to develop new analytical minds capable of bringing about positive change. 

By the same token, purposive education is significant as it accounts for a major investment in human capital development. It plays a pivotal role in developing the country in every aspect, be it social, cultural, or moral effect.  Scandinavian countries with a literacy rate of around 99 per cent have shown a boost in their overall indicators of socioeconomic development.  Therefore, the role of education in national development cannot be denied. It is the platform that manipulates the needed human resources for national development. Moreover, it allows nations to achieve socioeconomic, political, and cultural aspirations that lead the country towards advancement. Also, it increases individual knowledge and technical skills and fosters national development. Thereby, the leading ideology of purposive education brings advancement and enlightenment to the country. 

Having discussed the significance of purposive education, it is imperative to shed light on what it means. To begin with the social sphere, purposive education connotes creating consciousness of mind to tackle racism and discrimination to build inclusive societies. It asks education institutions to raise awareness about implicit bias and unconscious beliefs of individuals to counter intolerance, racism, and gender bias. A report by OECD reflects that the Netherlands, with more than nine million non-Dutch population, has a literacy rate of 90 per cent. The country stresses education with a strong grasp of the changing notion of diversity and inhibit skills necessary to translate diversity and inclusion into beneficial outcome. As a result, the country faces minimal prejudice and racism. It is, thus, evident that purposive education addresses intolerance, and gender biases, to advance the inclusion and peaceful coexistence of societies.

Furthermore, removing cultural lags by changing the dogmas of society is another prerequisite of purposive education. Living in a technological era, it is hard for material and non-material cultures to go hand in hand. Therefore, the slower development of non-material culture, values, and traditions, as contrasted with material or technological, cultural traits, results in social problems.  Neo-Luddism, for instance, is a philosophy opposing many forms of modern technology that was put to an end by a highly skilled and educated lot of industrialists in the 20th century. This is to say, cultural lag, an outcome of the resistance to change, can be overcome by teaching advanced education among individuals that can open their minds toward technological advancement and help them to bridge the gap between the material and non-material culture.

Likewise, purposive education draws patterns in the political sphere too; it denotes a kind of education that produces opinion leaders who can aptly address social problems and promote national cohesion. Opinion leadership creates better pathways for socioeconomic development and uplifts unity and cohesion among the masses.  Opinion leaders like Lolly Daskal and Dawid Rowan, well-known in the field of leadership development, have a significant influence over the people. They helped the public to shape their opinions about the policies, issues, and candidates for political office through their social media handles and books . Such leadership is the product of meaningful education that enhances skills to think out of the box and provide a genuine solution to eliminate socioeconomic problems to underpin national cohesion.

Additionally, purposive education accent to make citizens aware of their political rights. A comprehensive education provides knowledge about human rights and the mechanism that protects them; it also imparts the skills needed to promote, defend and apply human rights and political rights. Studies have shown that countries like Turkmenistan, with a high literacy rate of 99.8, are more politically aware. The voter turnout ratio remained at 97 per cent in the presidential election in 2022. Laos, too, is on the same page with a 98 per cent voter turnout in the parliamentary election in 2021. Hence, it is evident that purposeful education works to stimulate the masses’ consciousness at an early age to have their say later in the political realm.

Moving on to the economic sphere, purposive education aspires to inculcate creativity in the pupils to increase entrepreneurship. It enhances innovative abilities and builds multi-level learning channels for entrepreneurs by integrating various knowledge and value system. This, in turn, boosts economic growth by introducing new markets for services and products.

Developed countries like the USA, Sweden, and Germany benefited greatly from entrepreneurship after the decline in manufacturing and a shift towards a service economy.  This shows entrepreneurs may even create entirely new industries that become the engine of future growth; all one needs are sagacious policies d a meaningful education to promote analytical skills.

In the same manner, purposive education means to increase workers’ efficiency by instilling skills to combat the underlying structure of poverty. It leads to personal growth and helps individuals reap their potential’s complete benefits.  According to the Missouri Poverty report 2022, maintaining education will increase employment and earning potential, ultimately impacting long-term economic and family security.  Education provides the acquired basic skills of critical thinking and problem-solving skills along with wit.  A published paper by UNESCO shows one year of education is associated with a ten per cent increase in wages.  Consequently, it changes the structure of food security and prevents the transmission of poverty between generations. Thus, it is evident that purposive education is necessary to escape chronic poverty.

Lacking a strong foundation in STEM education and vocational training is essential to purposive education. It turns out to be Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education uniquely suited to prepare students for 21st-century challenges. The focus of vocational training and STEM education is logical thought processing and problem-solving, allowing students to develop mental habits that can help them succeed in every field. According to the United States department of Labour , employment in STEM education is projected to grow 8.8 per cent by 2028. Meanwhile, non-STEM to grow by five per cent.  This shows STEM education is primed to become the next generation of innovators. Thus, the future lies in the hands-on learning experiences supported by vocational training and STEM education.  

Similarly, purposive education means incorporating digital simulation into the curriculum to get acquainted with the modern world. Simulation-based learning offers many opportunities to practice complex skills and implement different types of scaffolding to overcome modern challenges. For instance,  ENGIE, one of the world’s leading suppliers of energy efficiency services, is helping companies transition to carbon-free energy by employing digital twin simulation solutions . Real-time technology allows individuals to predict and validate the proper functioning of their installations. For that reason, purposive education induces a curriculum that facilitates effective learning.

Besides all this, purposive education is eminent in terms of its prospects. First and foremost, fair terms and policies in the socioeconomic and political system ensure a new legacy of success. The learned persons can make complementary policies which are long-term and reflective. Forging and adopting technically sound policies and implementing them effectively is necessary for successful development.  China, a growing world power with long-term maintained policies like China Vision 2050 and China 2035 program to achieve socialist modernization,  is an example to quote here that ensures its progress by leaps and bounds through effective policies. So progressive education provides states with analytical individuals who can make reflective policies to ensure success.

Moreover, meaningful education provides states with a trained workforce to meet the requirement of a knowledge-based economy. It enhances their skills via vocational training and contributes to advancement in technical and scientific education. The increasing number of educated workers performs tasks more efficiently and enhances economic productivity. As a result, knowledge has increasingly become an important means of value creation. Ramos, former president of Philippians, cited, “The most important wars of 21st century will be fought no longer on the physical battlefield but in corporate boardrooms, laboratories and classrooms . In short, national economies are becoming more knowledge-based, and nations are pushed into a knowledge era where education is vital. 

In the same fashion, Purposive education boosts job growth through STEM education. It develops skills such as logical thinking, creative problem-solving, and persistent work skills, which are increasingly valued by tech cooperation. The 21st-century job market requires a new set of skills, and there is more emphasis on technology. Education, thus, fulfilling the need of the market.  Across the world around 70 per cent of students worldwide pursue STEM-related higher education studies, according to the UNESCO 2021 report,  which will later accelerate the country’s economic growth. Moreover, it helps bridge the demand and supply of skills in the countries. Therefore, Meaningful education is a key to economic success. 

The preceding section of the essay highlighted the prospects of education. Now it is pertinent to propose the future course of action required to underpin progressive education to ensure the socio-economic and political growth of the country.

In the first place, Rote learning, in essence, has been seen to encourage convergent thinking and ignoring the Child’s divergent development skills. Thus it needs to be replaced by a critical thinking approach that brings creativity and the ability to come up with new, original, unique solutions to problems. Similarly, vocational training institutions must be introduced to satisfy the curiosity of analytical minds.  Vocational training stands out as an obvious venue to explore to improve opportunities for the educated and the poorly educated.  Success lies in the intense training and smart skills that help comprehend issues via analytical thinking and devise a solution with technical capability.

Apart from this, the institutions need to induce a modern uniform syllabus to reduce the differences between two parallel and largely unconnected education systems, public and private, operating simultaneously. Moreover, skilful and trained teachers are essential for grooming and triggering the analytical approach of the students. The efforts should be reinforced by paying substantial attention to the professional development of the teachers. As Albert Einstein aptly remarked, education is not learning facts but the raining of the mind to think.  For this, efforts must be made to ensure the quality of teacher education and the implementation of standers, as they are the nation builders.

Also, To complement the efforts, stronger public-private partnerships have to be forged to help overcome some of the capacity constraints in the public sector. Initiatives like ‘adopt a school’, whereby nongovernmental organizations are encouraged to take over public schools’ management, must be encouraged as it will open the door for the research and development centres too. There is a dire need to renew the focus on promoting research and innovation cultures in the country. It is commonly said that education’s essence  is not to fill the hollow vessels but to kindle the flame.  South Korea is a primary example of a nation that has progressed by focusing on research and innovation. Therefore, by promoting public-private partnerships, new research centres may facilitate students to reap their full potential.

Education is the foundation for the development and progress of society it leaves a long-lasting impact on global development and promotes the national interest of the country. The highly educated society has a critical intelligence of an exceptional order. However, purposive education does not materialize because of a lack of resources in developing countries like  Pakistan, which spend only 2% of its GDP on education. Despite knowing that the world is moving towards knowledge-based economies, developing countries cannot reap the fruits of education to its full potential . Nevertheless, purposive education can be materi9lized through public-private partnerships and an effective framework of policy making. It will ensure the implementation of the objectives of purposive education to boost the country’s socioeconomic development.

In a nutshell, purposive education means promoting a valuable, competitive, and consumer society. Such education is a globally acknowledged source of socioeconomic growth and development of a nation besides its moral and cultural aspects, which plays a role in the development of human capital that has strong as well as a constant positive outcome for the country’s efficiency. Furthermore, purposive education thrives for technological advancement through STEM education and stimulates an analytical approach to develop problem-solving skills in this modernized era. However, there is still room for improvement in the materialization of education in its true meaning. An adequate amount of resources and establishing a research and development centre can help education lighten up the darkest aspects of individuals and society. Purposive education is a necessary tool for socio-economic and political development that can only be put into practice through feasible means. As Malcolm X once said,

Education is a passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”

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Meaning Purposive Education: CSS Essay 2021

Table of Contents

Thesis statement

Purposive education empowers learners by providing them with a sense of direction, intrinsic motivation, and the skills needed to navigate an ever-changing world.

Introduction

Education is often seen as the key to personal growth, professional success, and societal advancement. However, in the pursuit of academic knowledge and skills, the element of meaning and purpose can sometimes be overlooked. Purposive education, on the other hand, emphasizes the integration of purpose and meaning into the educational process. By infusing education with a sense of direction, intrinsic motivation, and the skills needed to navigate an ever-changing world, purposive education empowers learners to become active contributors to society.  In This essay we will explore the concept of purposive education, its benefits, implementation strategies, and successful examples, highlighting its transformative potential in unleashing the true capacity of learners.

Exposition: Understanding the Concept of Purposive Education

A. defining purposive education.

Purposive education goes beyond the traditional content-focused approach, seeking to connect learning to the broader purposes that drive students’ lives. It involves shifting the educational paradigm from a focus solely on transmitting knowledge to fostering a deeper understanding of the relevance and personal significance of that knowledge.

B. The Role of Purpose in Education

In a world where information is readily accessible, fostering engagement and motivation in learners has become a crucial goal. Purpose-driven education accomplishes this by helping students identify their passions and align their learning with their personal aspirations. When students find purpose in their studies, they are more likely to be intrinsically motivated, resilient, and willing to overcome challenges.

Argumentation: The Benefits of Purposive Education

A. intrinsic motivation and passion.

Purposive education encourages educators to understand the unique interests and passions of their students. By connecting education to these individual passions, students become more motivated to learn. When students are genuinely interested in what they are studying, they become active participants in their own education, fostering a love for lifelong learning.

B. Development of Essential Skills

In addition to fostering motivation, purposive education cultivates essential skills that are crucial in today’s rapidly evolving world. By focusing on critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills, students develop the abilities necessary to thrive in complex environments. They become adaptable and equipped with the tools to navigate the challenges of the future.

C. Meaningful Learning Experiences

Purposive education places a strong emphasis on connecting classroom learning to real-world contexts. It encourages educators to design learning experiences that are meaningful and relevant to students’ lives. By engaging in experiential and project-based learning, students can apply their knowledge and skills to authentic situations, reinforcing their understanding and fostering a sense of agency.

Description: Implementing Purposive Education

A. curriculum design and learning outcomes.

To implement purposive education effectively, curriculum design must be aligned with students’ interests and aspirations. By incorporating students’ passions and providing opportunities for personalized learning, education becomes more meaningful and relevant to their lives. Clear learning outcomes should be established to ensure that students have a sense of direction and purpose throughout their educational journey.

B. Pedagogical Approaches

Purposive education requires a shift from traditional teacher-centered approaches to student-centered methods. Educators must create an environment that promotes inquiry-based learning, problem-solving activities, and active student participation. By leveraging technology as a tool for learning, educators can enhance engagement and facilitate personalized learning experiences.

C. Assessment Strategies

Assessment in purposive education focuses on authenticity and formative feedback. Instead of relying solely on exams and grades, educators should implement assessments that mirror real-world scenarios and provide opportunities for students to reflect on their progress. By promoting self-awareness and growth, assessment becomes a tool for personal development rather than a measure of achievement.

Narration: Successful Examples of Purposive Education

A. case study 1: high school entrepreneurship program.

One successful example of purposive education is the implementation of a high school entrepreneurship program. This program empowers students to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and equips them with the necessary skills to succeed in the business world. Students engage in real-world projects, developing business plans, conducting market research, and even starting their own ventures. By linking education to their passions and aspirations, students not only acquire practical knowledge but also cultivate valuable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and creativity. The program nurtures their entrepreneurial spirit and instills in them a sense of purpose, motivating them to pursue their goals with determination and resilience.

B. Case Study 2: Environmental Education Initiatives

Another compelling example of purposive education is the implementation of environmental education initiatives. These initiatives connect students to environmental issues and encourage them to take an active role in creating sustainable solutions. Through hands-on projects, students learn about the importance of environmental conservation, sustainable practices, and the impact of human activities on the planet. By engaging in activities such as community clean-ups, designing eco-friendly initiatives, or advocating for environmental policies, students develop a deep sense of purpose and become passionate environmental stewards. This purposeful learning experience not only equips them with essential knowledge and skills but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards their communities and the planet.

Purposive education holds immense potential in transforming the educational landscape by infusing meaning and purpose into the learning process. By integrating purpose into education, students become active participants, motivated by their passions, and equipped with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of the modern world. Through intrinsic motivation and passion, students become lifelong learners, driven by their genuine interests. The development of essential skills ensures their readiness for future challenges and opportunities. By creating meaningful learning experiences, educators empower students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts, fostering a sense of agency and personal growth. Successful examples, such as entrepreneurship programs and environmental education initiatives, demonstrate the transformative power of purposive education. In conclusion, purposive education is a powerful approach that redefines the purpose of education, placing meaning, and direction at its core. By embracing this approach, educators have the opportunity to unleash the potential of learners, enabling them to become active contributors to society. As the world continues to evolve, it is essential to prioritize purpose-driven learning to ensure that education remains relevant and empowering. Through the implementation of purposive education strategies, we can shape a future where learners are engaged, motivated, and equipped with the skills needed to create positive change in their lives and the world around them.

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Essay Meaning Purposive Education (CSS/ BA/ B.Ed)

Human beings are Allah’s best of all creations because they possess the ability to think and reason their thoughts. They are provided with a specific machine that is brain which has the capability to distinguish right and wrong.

Education is a manner in which and by which the expertise, personality and behavior of the human being are shaped and framed.  It discriminate human being from other creations. The process of education is not only self- realization of the individual but it is also to bring into act the capability in man.   Every individual has some aim in his life. Education contributes in achievement of that aim. There is a definite purpose emphasized all educational activities.

There are various purposes of education. The sole purpose of education is to instruct all students and give them equal chance as a means to flourish in life. Through education and skill, everyone can get eminence. Moreover, common values such as being punctual, obeying rules, assistance, learning and get along together as well as a perception of responsibility are all important factors of education. The combinations of knowledge and skills as well as the common values will help our new comers bloom and become responsible citizens.

Education has remained a vital prerequisite of social change. The part of education has ever since been purposive as it looks onto creating new analytical minds prepare to bring constructive change in societies. However, in present time the accurate meaning of education is starting to dissolve through manipulation at primary and secondary level of socialization. The worse thing about this downturn is that it is always neglected.

The objective of getting education is to deliver advantages to all groups that are somewhat uniform. It is a demolishing factor. The difference is who the educational structure is handed over and whether really they are equal. In most cases, education was not provided to low castes. Now, it is more global. Education must also make one capable for quick, determined and effective thinking. A great majority of the educated human beings do not think logically. 

Inculcating students with the education to get by is old-school credence. It’s the idea that schools need to facilitate students with the knowledge they need to be practical citizens in their daily life. They need to know how to read, write, and do calculations. These are the fundamental subjects that form the basis of education.

The objective of education to teachers is to transmit knowledge about the subject affair they teach without much thought to other categories. On the other hand it’s vital for students to have a complete grip of each subject, this can sometimes be hard. When taken to the utmost, these teachers concentrate on their own subject situation as being more important than what students are learning in other subjects. For example, teachers who are not agreed for making compromise on their own subject matter for the best of the students can make difficulty for the school by not being open to curricular campaigns.

The will to create thoughtful adults might be supposed another school belief. This is held by many individuals, mostly within the big community. Students will be a part of a society and they will require ability to exist within that society as intellectual citizens. As one day they will need to be capable to vote in presidential elections.

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3.2: What is the purpose of education?

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• Jennfer Kidd, Jamie Kaufman, Peter Baker, Patrick O'Shea, Dwight Allen, & Old Dominion U students
• Old Dominion University

By: Karen Herndon

Introduction

Have you ever asked yourself what the purpose of education is? It is believed to be a question that is highly thought about but in reality it is not. We tend to focus on the tasks at hand rather than the overall goal. Many will find that when asked specifically what education’s purpose is, the answer in return is nothing outside of the course curriculum (Bass, 1997). Well you may be questioning why this is. In order to provide an answer we need to consider both sides of the topic. On one hand the government controls the educational system which enforces the use of mandatory testing to evaluate each student as well as the educational institution. In other words, emphasis is placed on providing students with the skill that they will need to succeed. On the other hand, there is the belief that children should not only be presented with the abilities to learn but they should be able to expand what is given through individual growth and development beyond materials obtained from the classroom. Their inner talents need to be brought out and polished (Minor, 2007).

“Do not then train youth to learn by force and harshness; but direct them to it by what amuses their minds so that you may be better able to discover with accuracy the peculiar bent of the genius of each." ~Plato (Minor, 2007)

Government Effects on Education’s Purpose

If one looks closely at the government’s heavy involvement in what to teach and what not to teach children it’s the administering of assessment tests. These tests do not allow a child to form opinions on subjects which in turn impedes social growth and development. The government forces school districts to meet certain minimal requirements so unfortunately the focal point has become mainly to teach material that students will need to know in order to obtain passing scores on standardized tests (Bass, 1997). This is attributed to the government’s implementation of laws such as the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) (A Firsthand Look at NCLB, 2006). Students are expected to follow certain guidelines and curriculum; however teachers are pressed for time. In order to ensure they achieve all of the mandated guidelines and curriculum they teach only what they are required to. This leaves little time to introduce material to students that may be beneficial to them in the long run (Bass, 1997). For example the NCLB has received strict criticism for focusing too much on testing and not enough on actually teaching and allowing the student to further their knowledge. It has been brought up that the NCLB’s ignorance towards equity has caused problems. For instance one school system may possess funding which would make it easier to obtain the minimum passing score versus a school system that lacked funding. (A Firsthand Look at NCLB, 2006).

Social Development’s Role in Education

Education is not only being presented with material to learn but to also expand one’s knowledge of themselves and their surroundings. It appears that the growing trend today in school systems is to teach students particular course work with little to no regard to instruction on how this material could relate to life. Since most subjects utilize textbooks they are heavily relied upon and do not allow the student much freedom to think outside the box (Lim, 2005). Children will naturally form opinions from the material that is presented and being able to express these opinions will only help them to grow socially and eventually fit in with the rest of the world. Social growth is very important because when it is time for the child to become independent if they have not developed that part of their life then interaction with other people and situations could be quite daunting. Most parents and parental guardians do want their child to follow a structured curriculum; however, they still want their child to have time for recreation and family. Childhood is an important part of everyone’s life. It encourages social interaction and development as well as teaching them to be independent. People that are deprived of their childhood regret it when they grow up which could negatively impact their lives and the lives of others (Lim, 2005).

“The only purpose of education is to teach a student how to live his life-by developing his mind and equipping him to deal with reality. The training he needs is theoretical, i.e., conceptual. He has to be taught to think, to understand, to integrate, to prove. He has to be taught the essentials of the knowledge discovered in the past-and he has to be equipped to acquire further knowledge by his own effort. ~Ayn Rand

(Yero, 2001-2002. p. 1)

Thomas Jefferson’s View

With regard to the purpose of education Thomas Jefferson was one of the biggest advocates of the principle that ignorance and political liberty could not co-exist. Jefferson believed the purpose of education was to properly prepare young minds so they would be able to make educated decisions and uphold the integrity of the country. He insisted on providing four main subjects to elementary school students. Geography, arithmetic along with reading and writing made up these subjects. These subjects were deemed crucial for the proper development of children in order to function later in life. One example of this is that Jefferson believed that children needed to be given proper education in order to become informed voters. He supported free education through taxation as well as equal opportunity education. Jefferson believed the purpose of education was not to segregate but to educate (Jewett, 1997). Of course, the spectrum of children that Jefferson saw needing this education was very narrow -- only male and white. Ironically, it was for this very reason -- that education would lead to political liberty -- that whites who participated in the system of slavery denied enslaved African-Americans the right to an education.

Evaluating Student Assessment

Getting back to assessment and student evaluation drives one to consider if whether we are going about education wrong as a country by placing so much importance upon standardized tests. As previously stated, it has been debated whether The No Child Left Behind Act does little to expand the constantly developing minds of our youth (A Firsthand Look at NCLB, 2006). A child’s mind can be compared to a sponge, in that they need to soak up information and substance in order for it to expand, otherwise, it dries out. If you observe the examinations and how students are generally evaluated in today’s school systems, you will see that the vast majority of them are made up of multiple choice questions. Since there is typically only one correct answer, it is almost impossible for the child to reflect upon the question and develop a view that they can grow from or share with others if they so choose (Yero, 2001-2002).

In Summation

When considering both sides of the purpose of education you may want to reflect on the words of Plato when he said: “Do not then train youth to learn by force and harshness; but direct them to it by what amuses their minds so that you may be better able to discover with accuracy the peculiar bent of the genius of each (Minor, 2007).” However, the government’s involvement in education has had positive impacts on students since the NCLB has forced teachers and other school officials to focus on all children including those with special needs (A Firsthand Look at NCLB, 2006). No matter what side of the river you are on with regard to your opinion on this topic, it is hard to discredit the fact that one purpose (if not the main purpose) of education is to prepare the youth for their future and ours.

A First Hand Look at NCLB. (2006). Educational Leadership , (ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. EJ766269) Retrieved February 2, 2008, from ERIC database.

Bass, Randall V. (1997). The Purpose of Education. The Educational Forum 61. 128-32. Retrieved February 1, 2008 from http://vnweb.hwwilsonweb.com.proxy.lib.odu.edu/hww/jumpstart.jhtml?recid=0bc05f7a67b1790e1e9c442f93fe94fd41479b00e75d7c18b3344ea852044009af47f7afa8bcd3df&fmt=H

Jewett, Thomas O. (1997). Thomas Jefferson and the Purposes of Education. The Educational Forum 61. 110-113. Retrieved February 1, 2008 from http://vnweb.hwwilsonweb.com.proxy.lib.odu.edu/hww/jumpstart.jhtml?recid=0bc05f7a67b1790e1e9c442f93fe94fd41479b00e75d7c18b3344ea852044009ceb909ea41cb5644&fmt=H

Lim, Mike. (2005). What is Education? The All I Need . Retrieved February 2, 2008 from http://www.theallineed.com/family/05032602.htm

Minor, Summer. (2007). The Purpose of Education is… Mom is Teaching Blog . Retrieved February 2, 2008 from http://www.momisteaching.com/the-purpose-of-education-is/+purpose+of+education+summer+minor&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=1&gl=us

Yero, Judith Lloyd. (2001-2002). The Meaning of Education. Teacher’s Mind Resources . 1-3. Retrieved February 2, 2008 from www.teachersmind.com/pdfdirectory/Education.PDF

This page was revised by Alice Hale (Chabot College) using the Libretexts remixing tool.

The Purpose of Education

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This chapter discusses the purpose of education in modern societies, given the systems of thought that we have inherited, and addresses the question of the extent to which the purpose of education is to develop the individual as well as to benefit society. Notions of reciprocity are examined—for example, individual uniqueness balanced with the common good and reproduction of society balanced with developing character. Should school-based learning be oriented towards a vocation or for lifelong learning? How do we develop and value human and cultural capital?

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Bloom, B. S., Engelhart, M. D., Furst, E. J., Hill, W. H., & Krathwohl, D. R. (1956). Taxonomy of educational objectives: The classification of educational goals . New York: David McKay Company.

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Stehlik, T. (2018). The Purpose of Education. In: Educational Philosophy for 21st Century Teachers. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-75969-2_3

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What Is Education For?

Read an excerpt from a new book by Sir Ken Robinson and Kate Robinson, which calls for redesigning education for the future.

What is education for? As it happens, people differ sharply on this question. It is what is known as an “essentially contested concept.” Like “democracy” and “justice,” “education” means different things to different people. Various factors can contribute to a person’s understanding of the purpose of education, including their background and circumstances. It is also inflected by how they view related issues such as ethnicity, gender, and social class. Still, not having an agreed-upon definition of education doesn’t mean we can’t discuss it or do anything about it.

We just need to be clear on terms. There are a few terms that are often confused or used interchangeably—“learning,” “education,” “training,” and “school”—but there are important differences between them. Learning is the process of acquiring new skills and understanding. Education is an organized system of learning. Training is a type of education that is focused on learning specific skills. A school is a community of learners: a group that comes together to learn with and from each other. It is vital that we differentiate these terms: children love to learn, they do it naturally; many have a hard time with education, and some have big problems with school.

There are many assumptions of compulsory education. One is that young people need to know, understand, and be able to do certain things that they most likely would not if they were left to their own devices. What these things are and how best to ensure students learn them are complicated and often controversial issues. Another assumption is that compulsory education is a preparation for what will come afterward, like getting a good job or going on to higher education.

So, what does it mean to be educated now? Well, I believe that education should expand our consciousness, capabilities, sensitivities, and cultural understanding. It should enlarge our worldview. As we all live in two worlds—the world within you that exists only because you do, and the world around you—the core purpose of education is to enable students to understand both worlds. In today’s climate, there is also a new and urgent challenge: to provide forms of education that engage young people with the global-economic issues of environmental well-being.

This core purpose of education can be broken down into four basic purposes.

Education should enable young people to engage with the world within them as well as the world around them. In Western cultures, there is a firm distinction between the two worlds, between thinking and feeling, objectivity and subjectivity. This distinction is misguided. There is a deep correlation between our experience of the world around us and how we feel. As we explored in the previous chapters, all individuals have unique strengths and weaknesses, outlooks and personalities. Students do not come in standard physical shapes, nor do their abilities and personalities. They all have their own aptitudes and dispositions and different ways of understanding things. Education is therefore deeply personal. It is about cultivating the minds and hearts of living people. Engaging them as individuals is at the heart of raising achievement.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights emphasizes that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights,” and that “Education shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.” Many of the deepest problems in current systems of education result from losing sight of this basic principle.

Schools should enable students to understand their own cultures and to respect the diversity of others. There are various definitions of culture, but in this context the most appropriate is “the values and forms of behavior that characterize different social groups.” To put it more bluntly, it is “the way we do things around here.” Education is one of the ways that communities pass on their values from one generation to the next. For some, education is a way of preserving a culture against outside influences. For others, it is a way of promoting cultural tolerance. As the world becomes more crowded and connected, it is becoming more complex culturally. Living respectfully with diversity is not just an ethical choice, it is a practical imperative.

There should be three cultural priorities for schools: to help students understand their own cultures, to understand other cultures, and to promote a sense of cultural tolerance and coexistence. The lives of all communities can be hugely enriched by celebrating their own cultures and the practices and traditions of other cultures.

Education should enable students to become economically responsible and independent. This is one of the reasons governments take such a keen interest in education: they know that an educated workforce is essential to creating economic prosperity. Leaders of the Industrial Revolution knew that education was critical to creating the types of workforce they required, too. But the world of work has changed so profoundly since then, and continues to do so at an ever-quickening pace. We know that many of the jobs of previous decades are disappearing and being rapidly replaced by contemporary counterparts. It is almost impossible to predict the direction of advancing technologies, and where they will take us.

How can schools prepare students to navigate this ever-changing economic landscape? They must connect students with their unique talents and interests, dissolve the division between academic and vocational programs, and foster practical partnerships between schools and the world of work, so that young people can experience working environments as part of their education, not simply when it is time for them to enter the labor market.

Education should enable young people to become active and compassionate citizens. We live in densely woven social systems. The benefits we derive from them depend on our working together to sustain them. The empowerment of individuals has to be balanced by practicing the values and responsibilities of collective life, and of democracy in particular. Our freedoms in democratic societies are not automatic. They come from centuries of struggle against tyranny and autocracy and those who foment sectarianism, hatred, and fear. Those struggles are far from over. As John Dewey observed, “Democracy has to be born anew every generation, and education is its midwife.”

For a democratic society to function, it depends upon the majority of its people to be active within the democratic process. In many democracies, this is increasingly not the case. Schools should engage students in becoming active, and proactive, democratic participants. An academic civics course will scratch the surface, but to nurture a deeply rooted respect for democracy, it is essential to give young people real-life democratic experiences long before they come of age to vote.

Eight Core Competencies

The conventional curriculum is based on a collection of separate subjects. These are prioritized according to beliefs around the limited understanding of intelligence we discussed in the previous chapter, as well as what is deemed to be important later in life. The idea of “subjects” suggests that each subject, whether mathematics, science, art, or language, stands completely separate from all the other subjects. This is problematic. Mathematics, for example, is not defined only by propositional knowledge; it is a combination of types of knowledge, including concepts, processes, and methods as well as propositional knowledge. This is also true of science, art, and languages, and of all other subjects. It is therefore much more useful to focus on the concept of disciplines rather than subjects.

Disciplines are fluid; they constantly merge and collaborate. In focusing on disciplines rather than subjects we can also explore the concept of interdisciplinary learning. This is a much more holistic approach that mirrors real life more closely—it is rare that activities outside of school are as clearly segregated as conventional curriculums suggest. A journalist writing an article, for example, must be able to call upon skills of conversation, deductive reasoning, literacy, and social sciences. A surgeon must understand the academic concept of the patient’s condition, as well as the practical application of the appropriate procedure. At least, we would certainly hope this is the case should we find ourselves being wheeled into surgery.

The concept of disciplines brings us to a better starting point when planning the curriculum, which is to ask what students should know and be able to do as a result of their education. The four purposes above suggest eight core competencies that, if properly integrated into education, will equip students who leave school to engage in the economic, cultural, social, and personal challenges they will inevitably face in their lives. These competencies are curiosity, creativity, criticism, communication, collaboration, compassion, composure, and citizenship. Rather than be triggered by age, they should be interwoven from the beginning of a student’s educational journey and nurtured throughout.

From Imagine If: Creating a Future for Us All by Sir Ken Robinson, Ph.D and Kate Robinson, published by Penguin Books, an imprint of Penguin Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House, LLC. Copyright © 2022 by the Estate of Sir Kenneth Robinson and Kate Robinson.

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How to Write a Statement of Purpose | Example

Published on February 13, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on June 1, 2023.

When you apply for graduate programs or scholarships, the admissions committee is looking for more than just a list of grades. The statement of purpose (also known as a statement of intent or motivation letter) is your chance to stand out from the crowd and showcase your motivation, skills and potential. It should:

• Outline your academic or professional interests and goals
• Discuss relevant skills, experience and achievements
• Demonstrate why you’d be a good fit for the program

Table of contents

Successful statement of purpose example, requirements and prompts, personal introduction, experience and achievements, goals and motivations, fit with the program, tips for an effective statement of purpose, other interesting articles.

The torment of the Founding Fathers is responsible for my interest in Classics. My desire to learn Latin stemmed from reading American Revolutionary-era history during junior high and high school, and particularly from the countless Latin quotations I found in John Adams’ writings. Always eager for a challenge, I was intrigued by the American founders’ accounts of the torture of learning such a difficult language. In my first semester at university, I started learning Latin and thoroughly loved it. As I learned more and more about classical civilization through the language, I realized that I was passionately interested in many aspects of the field of Classics. I have since taken courses on mythology, art and archaeology, and religion, on ancient history, and on the classical tradition. I have also learned Greek, of course, starting with an intensive two-semester course at the university’s summer school. My experience studying abroad in Florence and traveling through Italy and Greece intensified my zeal for the field and, in particular, fueled my ambition to specialize in classical archaeology.

My personal philosophy of life is that everything is connected, and this conviction drives my desire to study Classics. The most rewarding moments for me are discovering and investigating connections – both broad ones, between fields and disciplines, and more specific ones, like the relationship between a piece of literature and an object of material culture. My liberal arts education has equipped me with a broad base of knowledge in the sciences, social sciences, humanities, and arts, and in the honors program I pursued independent projects exploring academic and personal connections, including a paper on ancient Mayan astronomy, a self-observation study on the effects of nutrition and hydration on exercise performance, and a paper on the influence of political context on the changing artistic representations of John Adams. By seeking out connections between seemingly unrelated areas of academia, I have acquired a well-rounded outlook which helps me approach new ideas with both a range of prior experiences and a mind always open to different interpretations.

In accordance with my personal philosophy, I have also continued to explore connections within Classics and between Classics and other fields. In 2007, I published an article in my university’s undergraduate humanities journal; inspired by my studies in Florence, I compared representations of the birth of Venus in ancient and Renaissance literature and art. My major academic achievement to date, however, has been my senior honor thesis on John Adams’ connection to the Classics. Funded by a Hilldale Research Fellowship, I conducted research in the Adams Papers at the Massachusetts Historical Society and in John Adams’ personal library at the Boston Public Library on the influence of the classical tradition on Adams’ worldview and how he consciously modeled himself on classical ideals. It was particularly fulfilling to connect historical and classical research in writing about the figure most responsible for instigating my study of the Classics.

As well as my research skills, I have demonstrated proficiency in the classical languages, winning prizes for both Latin and Greek translation from the Classics Department, as well as receiving an enthusiastic nomination from the department for the Pearson Fellowship from the American Philological Association. I am also the president of the undergraduate Classics Society, which allows me to share my enthusiasm for Classics with other students and the larger community.

One of the most appealing aspects of studying Classics is the vast range of topics encompassed by the field. Because my interests are broad and I value an interdisciplinary approach, I would like to pursue graduate study ultimately leading to a PhD in Classical Archaeology. Archaeology in itself is, of course, a multi-faceted field, requiring knowledge of history, language, anthropology, and various scientific and technological methods. I have already started building my skills in this area: I participated in a microartifact analysis from the excavation of a Maya site in Belize as part of an honors project, and this summer I will take part in two archaeological projects in Turkey after working as a research assistant on related material in the spring semester. This PhD program includes many other opportunities I am eager to explore, such as palaeography and papyrology courses, and especially the variety of fieldwork and museum experiences available. I believe that my strong background in the classical languages and wide range of courses on classical civilization and archaeological methods have prepared me well for this program, and I am convinced that, guided by my philosophy of interconnectedness, I will flourish in this program.

The first step is to read the application instructions. These should include the length of the document (usually 1-2 pages), any formatting requirements, and often a question or prompt that indicates what you should focus on.

In some cases, you might also be asked to submit a personal statement . Similar advice applies to both of these documents—both should give a sense of who you are, what you’ve done and what you want to do. But a statement of purpose is often more formal, tightly focused on your academic background and your suitability for the program.

If you are working on multiple applications, don’t try to write a one-size-fits-all text—tailor your statement of purpose to each program. Make sure to respond to the prompt and include all the information you’re asked for. A typical statement of purpose prompt looks like this:

Your focus will be slightly different depending on whether you’re applying for research-based academic programs (such as a PhD ) or professional qualifications (such as an MBA). But all statements of purpose should contain the following elements.

This is your chance to introduce yourself to the admissions committee and let them hear your voice. The statement of purpose shouldn’t tell your life story, but it should give a glimpse into who you are.

Academic and personal background

Give an overview of your academic background, and show what drives your interest in this field or profession. You might want to include some personal background too—your family history, social circumstances, personal relationships and life experiences have all shaped your trajectory and perspective. What unique insights will you bring with you?

Characteristics and personality

Think about aspects of your character that make you well-suited for graduate school. Don’t just list generic adjectives—give examples that demonstrate your strengths and show why they’re relevant.

• Are you organized enough to handle a high-pressure workload?
• Do you have the creativity needed to develop original ideas, or a systematic mindset perfect for problem-solving?
• Do you have strong leadership skills, or are you great at working collaboratively?

Avoid including irrelevant autobiographical detail in the statement of purpose. Everything you include should be aimed at showing why you’d be a strong candidate for the program.

Your experience shows that you have the necessary skills to succeed in graduate school. Don’t just summarize everything you’ve done—pick out some highlights to build a clear picture of your strengths and priorities, illustrating how you’ve learned and developed along the way.

Academic experience

If you’re applying for a research-focused program, such as a PhD, show your knowledge of the field and outline your research experience. This might include:

• A brief summary of your thesis or final project
• Courses that you found particularly valuable
• Projects you contributed to
• Publications
• Presentations
• Extracurriculars that gave you relevant skills or experience

Professional experience

If you’re applying for a professional program, such as an MBA, outline your experience so far and show how it relates to your career plans. This might include:

• Past or current job roles
• Projects you led or participated in
• Internships
• Voluntary work
• Training courses

In all cases, give specific examples with details of what you worked on, what you achieved, and what you got out of the experience.

As well as showing that you’re prepared for the program, explain what you expect to get out of it. What are your motivations for applying? How do you plan to make the most of its opportunities, and how will it help you achieve your goals?

Academic motivations

For academic programs, indicate your research interests, showing how they follow from and build upon what you have studied so far. This might include:

• A subfield that you want to strengthen your expertise in
• A specific problem or question that you’d like to address
• An initial idea for a research project
• A theoretical or methodological approach that you want to develop

This isn’t the place for an in-depth research plan, but it’s a chance to show your enthusiasm and knowledge of your field.

Professional motivations

For professional programs, outline your career aspirations and show how your experience informs your goals. This might include:

• The next step you want to take in your career. What position are you aiming for and how will the program help you achieve it?
• Your motivations for a career change. Can you make a link between your previous experience and your new direction?
• Your long-term goals. Where do you want to be in five or ten years, and how do you see yourself getting there?

The admissions committee wants to know that you’re genuinely motivated to complete the program, and the clearer your plans, the more convincing your commitment.

It’s important to show not only why you want to study this subject, but also why you want to do it in this particular institution and department.

• Do your research, and mention particular classes, specialisms or faculty that attracted you.
• Show why you’re a good fit. Do your priorities align with the values and culture of the institution? What will you contribute to the department?
• Discuss the specific skills, knowledge and experience you expect to get from the program.

The statement of purpose isn’t only about selling yourself—it’s about illustrating an ideal match between you and the program.

Once you’ve made sure to cover all the key elements, you can work on strengthening and polishing the text. Follow these tips to make your application the best it can be.

Stay focused

It can be tempting to try to cram in everything you’ve done, but a good statement of purpose requires careful selection to craft a focused narrative. One way to do this is by building your text around a central theme—for example, a character trait, an intellectual interest, or a career goal.

This strategy helps structure your text and puts your priorities centre stage. Link each paragraph back to the central idea, making it clear how everything fits together.

Think about your structure

The structure of a statement of purpose is somewhat flexible, as long as you include all the relevant information in an order that makes sense.

For example, you might start with a chronological story of where your interests began, or you might open with your goals and then select a series of examples that show your capacity to achieve them. If you’re desperate to study in this specific program, you could lead with a summary of why it’s your ideal choice, and then elaborate on each aspect to show why you’re a perfect fit.

The important thing is that the text showcases your strengths and motivations in a compelling, coherent way. As in any other piece of academic writing, make sure each paragraph communicates one main idea, and that each sentence flows smoothly and logically from the last. Use transition words and topic sentences to move between paragraphs.

Add meaning to your resume

The bare facts of your achievements—grades, prizes, work experience—are already included in your graduate school resume and transcripts. Use the statement of purpose not to repeat yourself, but to add personal meaning and texture to these facts.

If you got top marks for your thesis, describe the research process and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the topic. If you completed an internship or participated in a project, explain what new skills you learned and which aspects you found most valuable. If you already have lots of experience in the field, show how each step developed your skills and shaped your current plans.

Revise, edit, proofread

Your statement of purpose isn’t only about the content—it’s also a chance to show that you can express yourself fluently, confidently and coherently in writing. Spend plenty of time revising, editing and proofreading your text before you submit.

Make sure you stay within the recommended length, and check if there are any specific formatting requirements. If not, use a standard 12pt font, 1-inch margins and 1.5 line spacing.

When you have a final draft, our professional statement of purpose proofreading service can offer an extra pair of eyes to make sure every sentence is perfect.

Proofread my statement of purpose

Checklist: Statement of purpose

My statement of purpose clearly responds to the prompt.

I have introduced my academic, professional and/or personal background.

I have described any relevant experience and shown my development over time.

I have highlighted key achievements that demonstrate my talents.

There is a clear connection between my previous experience and my future plans.

I have explained how the program will help me achieve my goals.

I have mentioned specific aspects of the program, department and institution that appeal to me.

Every paragraph focuses on one central idea.

The paragraphs are organized in a logical order and tell a clear, coherent story.

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Meaning And Purpose Of Education – CSS Powerful Essay 2002

  The essay cover topics such as “Meaning and purpose of education CSS essay. What is the meaning of education? What is the purpose of education? Meaning and purpose of education essay. Education meaning and definition. The real purpose of education. The meaning and purpose of education CSS essay outline. Meaning and purpose of education CSS essay. Meaning and purpose of education CSS essay.”

Meaning And Purpose Of Education

“ Poverty is my pride, struggle is my way of life, education is my weapon and love of Allah is my strength.” Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Education plays the role of leadership in a society. The function of educational institutions is to develop people physically, mentally, socially, psychologically and spiritually. It improves social and cultural life of the people. All over the world universities are guiding and cooperating with the industrial and agriculturaldevelopment organizations and they are developing their economies rapidly and meaningfully. There is a close link betweeneducation and development. Until now the role of primary and secondary education in Pakistan has been simply preparation for tertiary education, which in the mind of most people means a university education. In Pakistan after passing more than six decades, the development indicators are not showing positive results. The participation rate at higher education is low comparatively to other countries of the region.

CSS Essay Notes

The word education is derived from Latin word educare, educere or educatum , which means to leads pupils or to draw out their hidden talents. The word educare also means rearing, educere means to bring out and educatum means to participate. The collective meaning of all these three words becomes the developing and shaping up of an individual’s talent and inner potentialities. The Encyclopaedia Britannicadefines education as ‘‘a discipline that is concerned with methods of teaching and learning in schools or school like environment as opposed to various non-formal and in-formal means of socialization.’’ Many scholars have also defined education in their own ways. Some of these definitions are; according to Socrates ‘‘Education is the mean that helps in searching the truth.’’ According to Aristotle ‘‘Education is a process necessary for the creation of sound mind in sound body.’’ Imam Ghazali has defined education in these words; ‘‘Education is a process which enables an individual to distinguish between the true and the false, the good and the bad and the right conduct and the evil doing.’’ The universally accepted meaning of education today is growth, that is, the continuous unfolding of one’s potentialities; it is a lifelong process. Education means differently on different grounds. The detail of each meaning is given below.

In the religion of Islam, education as an academic discipline encourages thinking system, that either directly or indirectly originating from Islamic values. This process of thinking has also been encouraged by Allah almighty in the Holy Quran and declared it as the characteristic of a true believer, who focuses on every aspect of the universe and find the indication of his God, which makes his belief even more stronger. Various Islamic scholars have made attempts to define education in the perspective of Islam. Abu Salih, a renowned Muslim scholar has defined Islamic education as the rearing and preparation of a Muslim for his early and immortal life.  According to Abd al Rahman al Nahlawi, Islamic education is a group of practical and verbal actions inspired by knowledge of the Quran and Sunnah and based on them in matters to do with faith.  In the words of the Quran (Surrah Al Baqarah, Fourth Rukuh) Allah made Adam and his descendants as vicegerents on earth due to the knowledge that Allah has bestowed upon Adam. And when angels enquired Allah about His vicegerent, He asked them the names of some things but the angels were unable to say their names because they had no knowledge of that. On asking Adam, he easily spoke all the names of the things and proved his ability for vicegerent on earth. And it was because of this knowledge that angels on the order of God bowed before Adam. In Islam, knowledge is of two types, revealed and acquired. The first one is that which has been given to human beings through Prophets by Allah almighty while the second one is that which includes human efforts in its acquisition after experimentation and observation. Islam endorsed the acquisition of both types of knowledge.

Education both reflects and influences the social and cultural order of a society. However in modern society education is viewed as a way of formal training. As A.W Green writes, ‘‘historically education has meant the conscious training of the young for the later adaptation of the adult roles. By modern convention, however, education has come to mean formal training by specialists within the formal organization of the school.’’   Education according to western scholars is deliberate and organized activity through which the physical, intellectual, moral and spiritual potentialities of the child are developed, both as an individual and as a member of society.

Politically education means a system of learning through which political ideas, theories and ideologies are instilled in public and it makes them aware of their political rights and duties. Only a politically educated nation could ask their leaders about their duties and could take active part in the political affairs of the country. Each liberal state, from liberal democracies to totalitarian systems uses education as one of their state apparatus to transmit their political ideologies.

From economic point of view, education means a substantial investment in human capital. It is considered as one of the most fundamental factors of development. No country can achieve economic progress without making an enormous investment in its human capital sector. Human capital means highly professionally educated and trained personnel that gives new ideas and brings advancement in economic sector with new inventions, discoveries, theories and laws. Education raises people’s productivity and activity and promotes entrepreneurship and technological advances. In addition it plays a very crucial role in securing economic and social progress and improving income distribution.

Generally the purpose of education is believed to support children in developing their good moral behaviour, their skills, their knowledge and the concept of responsibility that allows them to become a self-conscious, responsible and contributing member of society.  Some scholars also considered education as the guard of social, cultural and historical assets and it also lead to the foundation of various cultural values of nation. According to Martin Luther King Junior ‘‘Education has both a utilitarian and moral function.’’  He argued that reasoning ability is not enough and insists that character and moral development are necessary to give critical intellect to human purposes. The purpose of education on various grounds has been discussed below.

In Islam education is concerned with the deep meaning and experiences that individual and groups make and help them give purpose to their lives. It provides opportunities to individuals to explore and respond to the meanings of their experiences and help and guides those who are facing the same experiences. Among pupils, it promotes social, cultural, moral and spiritual development and prepares all pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of the present and the future. Islamic education demands that a Muslim should at least have the knowledge of the fundamentals of his religion. He must know his rights and duties and should maintain a balance between religion and world. Islamic education develops the spirit of Muslim brotherhood in individuals and guides them in their social, political and economic affairs of the contemporary world.

Historically the purpose of education socially is conditioned. For example if we take a look at the historical periods in Sparta, the purpose of education was the creation of  strong  and brave soldiers while in Anthems, its purpose was the harmonious development of the body and mind. In ancient Rome the purpose of education was to become a good orator and in feudal society, for aristocracy the goal was a great knight and for John Locke (an English writer of the Enlightenment period) the purpose is the education of young gentlemen. Society, system of values, ideological and political understanding and definitions, globalization, sense of the human and his personality, social tradition, development of pedagogical science and the school system, needs, interest and desires of the person himself all are the factors that influence the determination of the purpose of the education on social bases. Generally believed purpose of education is that it provides awareness about the society, helps in the development of society and assure humanistic approach towards society.

United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) concretely state the following contents and purposes of education;

• Qualification of youth for efficient action in the society, which is changing.
• Development of invitation, criticism and independent decision making, as well as responsibility and efficiency in professional acting.
• Qualification of youth for tolerance, understanding and communication with people of different nations, religions, races and ideologies.
• Qualification of youth for permanent education and self-education.
• Building a recognizable identity
• Teaching for life in the global world.
• Ecological education.

No political theory is adequate unless it is applicable to children as well as men and women. Nation states in twenty first century are waging wars indirectly for increasing their circle of influence. The direct way of doing this is to spread their political idea among the masses by teaching their political philosophies at schools and colleges. They also use electronic, print and social media for the same purpose. Every states mould their youth the way the states want by instilling their respective political ideas and views at all levels of education (primary, secondary and tertiary).Education also helps people to understand and discuss the political policies of state. It gives them awareness about their rights and their role in the political sphere of the country.

Education is considered to have a strong relation with social and economic development. In contemporary times when focus is on the ‘Knowledge Based Economy’ the role of education becomes all the more important in the development of human capital. After all, a society of literate and skilled citizens has more chances of development at the social and economic levels. Education can reduce poverty and social injustice by providing the underprivileged resources and opportunities for upward social mobility and social inclusion. There are two dimensions of the economic function of education. These are qualitative and qualitative quantitative. In the first dimension;

• Education produces the quantum of man power that the economy needs at any time. For example engineers, teachers, lawyers and so on. Education equips man power with skills.
• Adjust man power to the changing needs of the economy and society.
• Revision of curricula in response to the dynamic rate of the economy.

Qualitative education imparts ‘Know-What’ as well as ‘Know-How’. Know-what is subject matter while know-how deals with methods and techniques of doing things. Success on a job required both. Qualities developed in individuals by education are honesty, truth, respect, resourcefulness and so on. Education also helps in developing various economic ideas that helps in economic development of society.

Over the time series of human social, cultural, economic, political and technological development, the meaning and purpose of education may have remained different for different nations but it has shared some similar principles all the time. This includes teaching of peace instead of war, affinity instead of animosity, humanity instead of brutality and love, respect and prosperity for all.  Education is a life-long process and an agent of change and development.

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