What Is It

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

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 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 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 aunthentic
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.

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 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 highest pedestal. Education, in the
end, creates men of culture and integrity.

What’s More

Activity 2: Categorize Me!

Directions: Read and analyze the following statements. Classify the statements whether
they characterize a formal or non-formal education. Write the letter in the
corresponding box.