“We are faced with the paradoxical fact that education has become one of the chief obstacles to intelligence and freedom of thought.”
The term education encompasses a whole gamut of experimental learning which, in a school, is given through teachers in the classroom and often, more importantly, outside. It is the nature of the experience and how it is designed to be imparted that makes the difference between a good school and an ordinary school.
How the academic subjects taught and what are is it a school should teach outside academic subjects?
There are three important functions, among others, of the educational process in the classroom apart from mere learning:
- To develop problem-solving abilities.
- To develop creative abilities, and
- To develop curiosity and an inquisitive spirit.
Education philosophy, Does the school have systems of teaching and learning that encourage development of the above? For instance, through assignments, seminars and project work? What place does the library have in the learning process? In the assessment systems used by the school, mission statement,how much emphasis is given to marks?
Often the opportunities for learning outside the classroom are greater, through sports and games and other activities like adventure sports, dramatics and community service. All play an important role in developing character and citizenship. A good school will provide a balance of opportunities in its curriculum to allow a student to develop along his or her special interests and talent.
The answer differs depending on the age of the children. Mission statement, There are some general points, but first a cautionary word about instant judgments. Some educationists claim that they can sense whether all is well in a school after the first five minutes - this is a dangerous belief, for a valid assessment requires time, the ability to ask the right questions, and seeing the school in action.
Education philosophy, Some educational institutes function perfectly well even if the head is inadequate, but most will reflect his / her strengths - and weaknesses.
- nformation regarding alumni.
- Philosophy and mission of the school.
- Concern, competence, credentials and leadership of Governing body members, Principal and other key resources.
- Constitution, objectives, public image of owning body (Society / Trust).
- Functioning of Parent-Teacher Association and its role.
- Visits by external luminaries and speakers.
- Integration of school with local community.
- Participation of school in competitions and tournaments.
- Career and college entry of school leavers.
- Transportation arrangements to and from school.
- Comparative standards of other schools in the area / region /country.
These schools practice genuinely principles and ideals of education. They have their fundamental objective in the full development of every pupil - academic, physical, cultural and spiritual. This objective is reflected in the curriculum of each school which, through its comprehensive nature, mission statement, enables such development.