The Purpose of an Education by Clare

The Purpose of an Education by Clare - April 2015 Scholarship Essay

I believe that the purpose of an education is to make someone a better person; to help them to grow intellectually and emotionally.

I don’t think anyone would argue with me that the main focus of education today is centered on learning new things and or more about things one already knows something about. For example if I wanted to learn something new I might take a course on Ancient Mayan culture. And if I wanted to know more about something I already have some background in I might take an advanced math class.

In both cases there is some level of intellectual growth involved but the kind intellectual growth that I think is even more important and that tends to be neglected is the kind that teaches one how to think. Classes on logic and critical thinking are the kinds of education that I think really help one to expand their intellectual horizons. I think often we form our ideas or opinions on emotional experiences that are not well thought out. If one can learn how to think, learn how to dissect an argument or set of ideas one is truly being educated.

What is emotional intelligence? How can education help one grow in that area? I have met several very smart people who were emotionally hindered or stunted. They couldn’t express or present themselves in such a way as to use their intellect to its full potential. I think that emotional education takes place when one becomes part of a community. When one learns how to express themselves with the people they live and work with. I think that any education that neglects this communal aspect is selling itself short.

A true education is an education of the full person, in their wholeness, developing them to their full intellectual and emotional potential.