The Four Pillars of Education

Learnin g to know Learning to do Learning to live together Learning to be

The Four Pillars of Education, described in Chapter 4 of Learning: The Treasure Within, are the basis of the whole report. These four pillars of knowledge cannot be anchored solely in one phase in a person's life or in a single place. There is a need to re-think when in people's lives education should be provided, and the fields that such education should cover. The periods and fields should complement each other and be interrelated in such a way that all people can get the most out of their own specific educational environment all through their lives. Click on each pillar for more information.

FOUR PILLARS OF LEARNING

According to UNESCOs Report of the International Commission on Education for the 21st century, Education must be organised around 4 fundamental types of learning. 1. Learning to know It may be regarded as both a means and an end of human existence. People have to learn to understand the world around them. 2. Learning to do Learning must transform certified skills into personal competence. It is assessed by looking at a mix of skills and talents, social behaviour, personal initiative and a willingness to work. These are often referred to as interpersonal skills or peoples skills by employers. Knowledge along with other qualities like communication, teambuilding and problem solving skills is most demanded by the service sector these days. People must learn to act appropriately in any kind of situation and they must become involved in shaping the future. 3. Learning to live together Education should help in inculcating a spirit of empathy in students so that it can have a positive effect on their social behaviour throughout their lives. Understanding each other, resolving conflicts through dialogue and discussion should be the essential tools of present day education. 4. Learning to be The aim of development is the complete fulfillment of man and his development in a holistic way as an individual, member of a family and community and as a responsible citizen.