"Philosophy" of "Education" (Philosophy of Education Part 1, Section 1)

Summary

In this introductory lecture on the philosophy of education, Professor Steph Hicks explores the fundamental questions: What is education? What is philosophy? And how are the two connected? She defines education as the process of learning and teaching knowledge and skills, primarily aimed at preparing young people for adult life. The lecture highlights the roles of students and teachers, the developmental nature of education, and the broader goals of fostering independence and lifelong learning. Hicks also raises thought-provoking questions about the inclusion of older learners, self-directed learning, and character development, inviting reflection and debate on the true scope and purpose of education.

Takeaways

• 😀 The course explores the philosophy of education, focusing on the fundamental questions: 'What is education?' and 'What is philosophy?'.
• 😀 Education is initially defined as a process of learning and teaching, primarily targeting young individuals.
• 😀 Key components of education include knowledge, skills, students, teachers, and the overall process.
• 😀 Education is generally a structured, long-term process aimed at preparing students for adult life.
• 😀 Teachers are typically more experienced individuals who guide students through the educational process.
• 😀 The goal of education is to transform students into independent adults capable of lifelong learning.
• 😀 Points of discussion include whether education should also include character development beyond knowledge and skills.
• 😀 The necessity of formal teaching is questioned, considering self-taught learners and adults returning for further education.
• 😀 Education can extend beyond youth, raising debates about lifelong learning and the broader scope of educational processes.
• 😀 The course does not presuppose prior expertise in philosophy or education, allowing learners to start from foundational concepts.

Q & A

What are the two main questions raised at the beginning of the course?

The two main questions raised at the beginning of the course are: 'What is education?' and 'What is philosophy?'

What is the primary focus of the course on philosophy of education?

The primary focus of the course is to explore the connection between philosophy and education, without assuming prior extensive knowledge in either educational theory or philosophy.

What are the key elements of education discussed in the video?

The key elements of education discussed include knowledge, skills, social setting (students and teachers), the educational process, and the transformation from dependent student to independent adult.

How does the course define education initially?

Education is initially defined as 'the process of learning and teaching, primarily for the young, the knowledge and skills necessary for adult life.'

What are some points of controversy regarding the definition of education?

Some points of controversy include whether education applies only to young people, whether self-taught individuals can be considered educated, and whether character development should be part of the educational process.

What is meant by the transformation from student to adult in the educational process?

The transformation from student to adult refers to the idea that education helps young individuals develop the knowledge, skills, and independence needed to function in adult life, with the goal of eventually becoming independent learners and contributors to society.

Why does the instructor mention self-taught individuals in the context of education?

The instructor mentions self-taught individuals to question whether teaching is a necessary component of education, or if a person who learns on their own can still be considered educated.

Why is the question of character development raised in the course?

The question of character development is raised to explore whether education should only focus on knowledge and skills, or if it should also aim to shape a person's character, ethics, and values.

How does the instructor encourage students to think about the definition of education?

The instructor encourages students to think critically about the definition of education by suggesting that there are multiple ways to define it, and by highlighting areas of debate, such as the inclusion of character or the role of teachers.

What is the role of teachers in the educational process according to the video?

According to the video, teachers play the role of guiding and instructing students, helping them to acquire knowledge and skills, and ultimately helping them transition into independent adults capable of lifelong learning.