by: Clarisse Lumbao Medina
Secondary School Teacher I
Dr. Panfilo Castro National High School
Candelaria, Quezon
Education in every sense is one of the fundamental factors of development. It encompasses both the teaching and learning of knowledge. In the human aspect, it immediately starts once an acquisition of knowledge takes place, either in formal or informal ways. Even a child can be easily educated by just giving simple instructions to be followed or a little information about something. This step could help a child to understand things around him/her in his/her own way. This little learning acquired by an individual motivates him to aspire for more learning which will eventually lead to acquiring new and additional knowledge. If this happens, an individual learns to make own choices of making decisions. As the process continues, an individual discovers more about himself/herself, in which these discoveries enable him/her to develop as a mature individual. Hence, education is considered the natural process of growth leading individuals to maturity by developing their potential.
In a broader sense, this development could be properly enhanced through appropriate education, including teaching and learning knowledge, proper conduct, and technical competency. An education that will focus on the cultivation of skills, trades, or professions, as well as mental, moral & aesthetic development. In lieu of this, our government never ceases to discover ways on how to continuously improve the education system in the country targeting to provide our learners with sufficient time for mastery of concepts and skills, develop them to become lifelong learners, and prepare the graduates for tertiary education, middle-level skills development, employment, and entrepreneurship. This mandated the implementation of the K-12 curriculum in the country just more than a decade ago.
Additionally, education is expected to cultivate learners to possess healthy minds and bodies, have strong moral and spiritual foundation, and have essential knowledge and skills for lifelong learning and self-actualization. It shall also engage learners in critical thinking and creative problem-solving enabling learners to contribute to the development of a progressive, just, and humane society. Furthermore, it should instill an appreciation among learners of the beauty around them committing to care for the environment, ensuring a sustainable future.
There is no doubt that education plays a crucial role in helping individuals uncover and develop their unique talents and skills, which somehow, may be hidden or not yet discovered even by himself or herself alone. By providing a supportive environment for exploration and growth, education enables individuals to identify their strengths and weaknesses, and then hone and enhance them to establish its timeless application. Moreover, through education, individuals gain the opportunity to reach their full potential, fostering personal and professional growth and making them effective contributors to the community where they belong.