The Value of a Moral Based Education

On Education

The word education is derived from the Latin word educere, which means “to lead out,” “to reform,” and “to refine.” Plato and other idealists believed that a learner has innate ideas which need to be polished, refined, or expanded. 

Another related Latin word used by John Locke and other realists is educare, which means “to form” or “to train.” This was connected with the idea that a learner’s mind is a tabula rasa (a blank sheet) on which information and knowledge must be impressed (Osaat).

Education varies based on characteristics such as sex, age, health, language, literary skills, location, and previous schooling. As it trains and equips the human mind, education has both extrinsic and intrinsic aims. Some of these include: 

1. Providing students with vocational training that will help them become self -supporting
2. Awakening an interest in the quest for knowledge
3. Fostering critical thinking skills
4. Invoking appreciation for the cultural and moral achievement of mankind
5. Supplying the necessary skills for students to take their place in society

On Values and Morals

The word value, according to S.D. Osaat, describes “what is worthwhile, cherished, or desirable.” Many things are cherished in society, from truth, courage, and integrity to patience, loyalty, and tolerance. Values can be based on religion, culture, personal morals, and more. While secular education recognizes the importance of pursuing the aforementioned values, Adventist education specifically prioritizes values that give God the glory due to Him.

Morality, in the field of ethics, is defined as “principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and bad behavior.” A major purpose of morality is to ensure stability and balance within species. Moral principles are standards that people follow in their attempt to live right and in harmony with one another in a given place. Morality is thus concerned with conduct of right living. 

Some examples of moral conduct compiled by educational writer Kit Kittelstad include telling the truth, keeping promises, having integrity, and treating others as you want them to treat you. Having a moral character involves being honest, kind, loyal, patient, forgiving, tolerant, and courageous. It’s also marked by the commitment to not destroy property, steal, cheat, judge, or kill. 

On a Value and Moral Based Education

While morals are formed out of one’s values, Kittelstad goes on to write that Judeo-Christian principles are often based on the Ten Commandments. In an Adventist context, the moral rules governing a person’s behavior have a biblical basis. Thus, an important role of Adventist education is to encourage the elevation of the soul to Christ through rightful living. Alongside these academic pursuits, Adventist education is a system aimed at redeeming and restoring biblical principles. 

References:
Osaat, S.D. (2002). Philosophy of education: An assessment. Owerri: Springfield Publishers Limited.

Author

Nneoma Fyne Ugorji

Dr. Nneoma is a senior lecturer in the Languages Department, Clifford University, Abia State, Nigeria. She is a dedicated christian and loves to serve humanity.