The Objective of Education

Dominion, Volume 28, Issue 100, 22 January 1935, Page 11

The Objective of Education

Sir,—The editorial in Friday’s “Dominion” appears to me to be very timely. If the teachers think our economic problems are to be solved by spending more money on our present education system, it would seem that they have much to learn, particularly when it is realised what a debatable subject education is iu this country. The objectives in education here are so obscure, or so numerous, that to the average person they are not clearly discernible. Everyone wants a matriculation pass, a higher leaving certificate or some such distinguishing liall-mark to indicate the completeness of his education, while the real fact is that one’s education is only commencing when he leaves schools and colleges behind. In this country so much is undertaken in. the name of education that the real objective seems to be overlooked, mislaid, or forgotten.- Probably all will agree that the main objective is to fit our youth for true citizenship. From this point differences will begin to manifest themselves, being influenced mainly by the line of life which one desires to follow, or which he wishes his children to follow. It would seem that the State's part is to see that everyone is fully instructed in the rudiments and principles of the three “R’s” with a good sound knowledge of present-day geography and a clear outline of history. After that, education can become specialised, but in all the training and teaching, both primary and post-primary, there must be a continuous cultural note throughout. To inculcate the desire to serve, to become a useful member of the community, and, above all, to teach the pupils how to think and how to apply the Golden Rule, are imperative needs in education. St. Paul says, “There are diversities of gifts, but the same spirit,” and if the same right spirit can be made to animate all our young people, there will be little to fear. Your article. Sir, is a reminder that cleaj thinking m education, and clear-cut objectives, are not yet with us, in spite of various commissions and their voluminous reports.—l am, etc., W.A.T. Khandallah, January 19.