Education has been a part of human history since the early days of civilizations. The practice of passing on knowledge from one generation to another has played a critical role in culture evolution. In pre-literate societies, adults taught the young in various skills, while in later times, written symbols and letters were used to transfer knowledge. Today, education can be categorized into two main categories: primary education and secondary education. Secondary education is the second phase of a person’s education, and is also known as higher education.
Generally speaking, education encompasses teaching specific skills and knowledge, as well as passing on positive judgment and well-developed wisdom. Education also aims to shape a person’s behavior for later life, and directs them toward their role in society. In cultures that have few formal institutions, the environment is the school, and all activities and events are considered lessons. A large number of adults act as teachers. Education helps people become better citizens and develop a respect for others.
Non-formal education, on the other hand, is a type of education that does not follow any formal curriculum. Non-formal education is not systemically implemented and does not involve the use of textbooks. Non-formal education is not based in a school, and is generally informal associations between students and teachers. Non-formal education can range from home-based learning to charter schools. The common features of non-formal education are small class sizes, close relationships between teachers and students, and a sense of community.
Depending on the field, specialized teaching skills can help a teacher support a particular student population. For example, an experienced English language teacher can help students who do not speak English fluently. A secondary education teacher might develop school improvement initiatives, or coordinate community volunteer programs. Another important role for post-secondary instructors is to teach students in a particular subject or discipline. Some researches have shown that high-quality teachers are one of the most important factors in improving the quality of education in the United States.
Providing basic reading skills to children could change entire societies. According to UNESCO, if every child had access to basic reading skills, they could lift 171 million people out of poverty. In addition, education improves decision-making skills. It prepares children for the adult world, which requires making daily decisions. Developing countries may have a more difficult time accessing quality education due to limited technological development. In addition to schooling, technology also plays a significant role in education.
The history of civilization begins in the Middle East and spread across North China millenniums later. The ancient Egyptian civilization grew almost simultaneously with the Egyptian and Mesopotamian civilizations, and both shared in many great literary achievements. In the Middle Ages, writing and formal education were essential to the continuation of these civilizations. It is no surprise that the first civilizations in the world emphasized the importance of education and its role in a culture’s evolution.