Is School the Best Way to Get an Education?

What’s the difference between education and schooling? And could it be possible that we’ve been doing it all wrong?

Education is one of the most important investments that a person can make in their life. It is a tool that allows individuals to gain the knowledge and skills needed to achieve their goals and become productive members of society. However, the question of whether school is the best way to get an education is one that has been debated for many years. In The Tuttle Twins and the Education Vacation, this question is asked and explored.

Let’s  look at the differences between schooling and education.

What is Schooling?

Schooling is a formal style of teaching, involving training, and instruction in a systematic setting. According to the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, “schooling is the education received at school.” It consists of limited subjects taught by teachers in an actual school building. Generally speaking, students learn the same things, take the same tests, are categorized by the same grading systems, and are all with the same age group.

The Limitations of Schooling

The individual can be swallowed up by the collectivism that runs the schooling machine. Without the opportunity to pursue their own interests, many students lose their drive and give up their dreams. The curriculum taught in schools is limited, which means that students are not exposed to a wide range of subjects and ideas. The lack of flexibility in the curriculum can also stifle creativity and independent thinking.

Furthermore, schools are not required to teach students how to succeed in the “Adult World.” Students are taught what to do and learn, how to pass a test, facts they will most likely never need in life (unless they are a contestant on Jeopardy), and how to follow orders and rules. Some students thrive in such an environment. They enjoy the challenge of memorizing facts and dates and places, and their self-esteem grows when the teacher compliments them on a good job. However, many students do not. The staggering percentage of dropout students is a huge indicator of school failure.

What is Education?

Education is a much broader concept than schooling. It is “a process of teaching, training, and learning …to improve knowledge and develop skills,” according to the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary. Education can take place anywhere, not just in a school setting. It can happen in the quiet of a student’s room, where books and other resources are freely available. It can take place in a noisy car heading home from the movies, or at the table while playing a board game. With the tap of a screen, a child has the ability to learn anything and everything they want.

The Benefits of Education

While schooling limits and even discourages unique and independent thinking, education allows it to flourish and expand. Education is not restricted by structured curriculum or rules and regulations. It is a process of self-discovery and self-expression. With education, students are able to explore their own interests and passions and develop a deep understanding of the world they live in.

What Parents Can Do

Educating your child is a chance for parents to give their child an in-depth understanding of the world they live in. This is sometimes referred to as informal education. It is not restricted by structured curriculum or rules and regulations. Parents and their children are in charge.

If attending public school is a necessity, there are many ways to increase your child’s knowledge base and interest levels. You might consider using meal time or travel time to discuss your child’s interests, hobbies, goals, and dreams. Listen carefully and encourage them. Open communication with your child about what they are passionate about!

Education and schooling are two different concepts with different purposes and outcomes. While schooling focuses on memorizing facts and following rules, education is a process of self-discovery and self-expression that can happen anywhere. As a parent, you have the power to give your child an education that is not limited by structured curriculum or rules, and that allows them to explore their interests and passions. To support your child’s education, consider using informal education opportunities and encouraging open communication with your child about their interests.

Help your child achieve a comprehensive education by buying them The Tuttle Twins books today. The Tuttle Twins and the Education Vacation is a great place to start! These books provide an engaging and educational look at important concepts such as economics, politics, and history, and will help your child develop a deeper understanding of the world they live in.