UCSP Q2-Module 2: Education 1

EDUCATION
Understanding Culture, Society, and Politics (UCSP)
Quarter 2- Module 2
MELC: Examine the functions and importance of education in the society.
In the previous module, you have learned about non-state institutions which include the following: banks and
corporations, cooperatives and trade unions, transnational advocacy groups, and development agencies and
international organizations. These non- state institutions are equally capable of influencing policy formation and
implementation. Also, these institutions often bridge the gap between the state and its citizen through active public
engagement. Meanwhile, the focus of this module is on education, particularly on its classifications, functions, and
importance.
In this module, you will learn about the classifications of education, functions and its importance to the society.
Classifications of Education
The Philippine educational system generally classifies education as formal and non- formal. Formal
education refers to the different levels such as pre-school, elementary, secondary, and tertiary, which
require specific years of formal schooling. Furthermore, the formal educational system is classroom-based,
managed by trained formal school teachers. Meanwhile, non-formal education consists of sets of definite
learning goals and objectives, generally making use of a more flexible curriculum, less rigid admission
procedures, and more participative teaching methods. It supplements the former through eradicating and
raising the level of functional literacy among those who could hardly afford formal education. It also serves
as an opportunity to acquire technical and vocational skills enabling unemployed youth and adults alike to
become more productive citizens. Besides, non-formal education also occurs outside the formal school
system which is used interchangeably with terms such as community education, adult education, lifelong
education, and second-chance education.
The United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) asserts that
education is a human right as enshrined under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is the belief
that the right to education is indispensable for the exercise of other human rights. Corollary to this is the
promotion of quality education as a tool in the development of fully-rounded human beings. It was proven
that education is a powerful tool in lifting socially excluded children from the bondage of poverty. Proof of
this is UNESCO’s data revealing that “if all adults completed secondary education, globally the number of
poor people could be reduced by more than one-half.” However, the realization of this entails “equality of
opportunity, universal access, and enforceable and monitored quality standards.”
In line with the promotion of education as a basic human right, the Philippine Educational System
adopted the Alternative Learning System (ALS) as a measure to provide educational opportunities to the
less privileged Filipinos who cannot afford formal basic education. In extreme cases, learners in far-flung
communities without schools are given the chance to be educated. This is also a solution designed to
accommodate dropouts who are willing to finish their studies. Moreover, ALS Non-Formal Education is
managed by ALS learning facilitators, such as mobile teachers, district ALS coordinators, and instructional
managers. Learning is usually done outside the classroom, like in the community learning centers,
barangay multi-purpose hall, libraries, or at home at an agreed schedule and venue between learners and
facilitators.
Traditionally, the ALS under the Department of Education is primarily focused on the aspects, such
as basic literacy, accreditation, and equivalency. However, recent initiatives are introduced just like the
linking of the program to small to medium scale industries. For instance, dairy buffalo management and
agri-aqua skills are taught to out of school youth in Eastern Visayas and Bohol. This scheme does not only
provide an opportunity to finish schooling but is designed for the eventual development of local industries
which in the end will a source of livelihood among the beneficiaries.
Importance of Education
“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” — John Dewey
This educational mantra speaks for itself and more those who believe. Indeed, it constitutes a
purposeful and meaningful existence. Though we need not be formally educated to live a good life but its
benefits are beyond reproach. The great Nelson Mandela once asserts that “education is the most
powerful weapon which we can use to change the world.” In the words of Malcolm X, “education is the
passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” These quotes among
others simply bring the importance of education to the forefront of a nation’s priority. However, let us look
further into the specific rewards that may offer to both individuals and society.
Education provides stability in life, since no one can take it from us. Acquiring education to the
fullest guarantee opportunities for a better career and a path to financial security. Indeed, a vibrant
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education means higher compensation and benefits. Nonetheless, it also fosters self-dependency for
education teaches us to rely on ourselves and make our own choices.
Consequently, self-confidence is built and strengthened since an educated person has the
capability to express his opinions and his mind. In another angle, education can protect you not only on a
financial aspect, and we can not just be taken advantage by whimsical and unscrupulous people.
Education also leads to social acceptance since you are considered as an economic potential. Our
human worth is dignified and the contribution we impart is gratifying since an educated citizenry is crucial
for economic growth. Accordingly, “we need people to continue to learn and research in order to constantly
stay innovative. Countries with higher literacy tend to be in better economic situations. With a more
educated population, more employment opportunities are opened.”
More on a personal basis, it also serves as a tool needed to foster global equality provided every
nation invests in education. In this manner, gaps between social classes will be eliminated. Moreover, it
can also be an instrument of global peace and security since it endeavors every citizen regardless of
stature to discriminate right from wrong, and can help people stay out of risky situations.
A glimpse of the great historian-scholar Renato Constantino, reminds us of the significance of a
truly Filipino education. The present educational set-up is a relic of American education. Constantino,
asserts the fact that we were influenced by historical circumstances to embrace a system of education
which is not truly reflective of our oriental identity. Cerebral analysis reveals that only a genuine education
based on the stature of race and culture, in our case, a truly Filipino education is a key a viable and
authentic transformation both in the local and national sphere.
Functions of Education
1. To inculcate moral and spiritual values inspired by an abiding faith in God.
2. To develop an enlightened, patriotic, useful and upright citizenry in a democratic society.
3. To instill the habits of industry, thrift, and to prepare individuals to contribute to the economic
development and wise conservation of the nation’s natural resources.
4. To maintain solidarity and to improve community life, perpetuate all that is desirable in our
national heritage and to serve the cause of world peace.
5. To promote the sciences, arts and letters for the enrichment of life and the recognition of the
dignity of the human person.
First, the inculcation of moral and spiritual values inspired by an abiding faith in God is a leading
function of education. This is instrumental in fostering international peace and unity between and among
nations of the world. War and other forms of violence are fruits of whims and caprices of those who are
morally and spiritually disabled. Thus, the role of education is crucial in battling the evils of opportunism
and greed. As observed, nations who value morality and spirituality to the highest degree enjoy the benefit
of a blessed and orderly society.
Second, education molds an enlightened, patriotic, useful, and upright citizenry. The eradication of
ignorance and the enlightenment of every member of the society is always the top priority of every
educational institution. This is because an enlightened and well-informed citizenry leads to a productive
nation. Moreover, patriotism is at the core of every educational curriculum which centers on the love of
one’s own country. Consequently, a flourishing community ensues as every member becomes an asset in
their own chosen field.
Third, it instills the habits of industry, thrift, and prepare individuals to contribute to economic
development as well as the conservation of the nation’s natural resources. Nations who were able to
embrace these economic traits are those with sound educational systems. Hence, they enjoy a vibrant
economy and live in a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.
Fourth, it enriches the value of solidarity and the improvement of community life, most especially to the
underprivileged communities. Through the power of education, many communities were lifted from the
bondage of illiteracy and ignorance. Education also endeavors to perpetuate all that is desirable in our
national heritage and to serve the cause of world peace. It was a break from the traditional notion among
them that education is a threat to their culture. In fact, several Indigenous People are successful in various
fields, and some are even on top positions in both the public and private sectors.
Lastly, education aims to promote the sciences, arts, and letters for the enrichment of life and the
recognition of the dignity of the human person. It is indeed fascinating to note that education can turn a
blank state of mind (tabula rasa) into intellectual giants. It has the power to bring us closer to a meaningful
and purposeful existence- a life that is worth living for. More importantly, it raises the human worth to the
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highest pedestal. Education, in the end, creates men of culture and integrity.