The Essence of Good Education – Khonzan Humtsoe, Asst. Professor, Department of Education

THE ESSENCE OF GOOD EDUCATION

According to Mahatma Gandhi “By education, I mean all-round development drawing out the best in child and man-body, mind and spirit”.

To put in the simplest terms, education is the process of acquiring knowledge and skills, building morals, values, and developing habits. But still education would consider incomplete as the process of education can be said to be complete only if an individual is able to put the knowledge one has acquire into good use. So education is not just attaining knowledge and gathering information but applying the ability of what one has learned to daily life scenarios.

So what is good education? Good education is about working towards the goal of preparing and empowering individuals to lead a productive life that definitely impacts the social and economical growth of the society and the country. Since good education is meant to stimulate logical and critical thinking in individuals. Imparting knowledge without developing relevant skill sets cannot solve the very purpose of education. This is the reason why National Education Policy (NEP2020) has emphasized the importance of imbibing 21st century skills on individuals. Logical thinking skill is of great value that is necessary for holistic growth as logical thinking involves observing, analyzing and then making use of correct cognitive tools for solving a given problem. Logical reasoning is required not only to solve the complex questions in books but also to solve problems we face in our day to day life.In today’s rapidly changing world where information is easily accessible and often overwhelming, the ability to think critically is more crucial than ever before. 

Critical thinking skills that go beyond memorization and regurgitation of facts, it involves analyzing, evaluating and synthesizing information to make informed decisions. Most people perceive that scoring good marks in examination is good education but good education does not mean scoring high marks or having academic excellence. Education is beyond all of that as, formal educational institutions alone does not lead to learning. Getting a good education depends on a lot of other factors such as environmental factors which includes his society and economic background and the ability of the individual to understand, analyze and act according to the need of the hour.

The purpose of good education is a fact that quality education and proper skill development is achieved with only strong education systems. Having trained and empathetic teachers is a prerequisite way of attaining or availing good education as education includes learning about different cultures, religions, communities, economic and social standards and preparing oneself to become a socially responsible individual which benefits the society as well as the country. The archetypical purpose of education is to gain knowledge and skills that will prepare individuals to lead productive and fulfilling lives. Some views education as a means to nurture a skilled labor force that drives economic growth and innovation.

Good Education is not just literacy as education fosters the children and the youths, the thirst for knowledge and creativity. Good education is available to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. It provides equal opportunities for all to learn and thrive. It embraces new ideas and encourages experimentation. It fosters a culture of innovation and creativity that prepares individuals for the challenges of the future.

A good education connects learning to real-world experiences and helps students see the relevance of what they are learning. It encourages them to apply their knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the world around them. 

Therefore good education by focusing on these essential elements can create educational experiences that truly empower individuals and prepare them to lead fulfilling lives as engaged citizens of the world and helps in enlightening the minds of people. An educated and knowlegeable society is one that succeeds in developing and progressing towards social well-being and economic justice.

An educated individual is productive and is geared to grow and develop socially, economically scientifically and technologically to become a powerful, strong and independent individual who would benefit its society as well as the nation.

Degree of Thought is a weekly community column initiated by Tetso College in partnership with The Morung Express. Degree of Thought will delve into the social, cultural, political and educational issues around us. The views expressed here do not reflect the opinion of the institution. Tetso College is a NAAC Accredited UGC recognised Commerce and Arts College. Currently, the Degree of Thought Column is managed by the Department of Mass Communication, and the editorial team are K.C. Gabriela, Asst. Professor; Dr. Maria Lalmuankimi, Asst. Professor; and Rinsit Sareo, Asst. Manager, IT, Media & Communications.

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