Functions of education

Functions of Education

The primary function of education is the transferring or transmission of knowledge and reconstruction of the social heritage.
But role of education is broader than just obtaining knowledge.
As per John Dewey – The function of education is to help the growing of a helpless young animal into a happy, moral and efficient human being.
Education is a dynamic force in the life of an individual and influences his physical, mental, social, emotional, ethical, creative and spiritual development.

The functions of Education can be classified into 2 types.

 1) Functions of education towards the individual –

a. To provide growth and development – Growth and development is not just biological maturation but all-round development of the child’s abilities and talents.

b. To direct, to guide, control the innate capacities of the child into the channels approved by the society. i.e. to provide internal and external direction to him.

c. To prepare the individual for the responsibilities and privileges of adult life – the child should be able to face the complex challenges that he meets in life.

 2) Functions of education towards the Society –

a. To make continuity of physical and social life – To make physical life continual through reproduction and to make social life continual by practicing and advancing current customs, traditions, values, occupations of the community, etc.

b. To conserve social heritage and culture – this is important as it is the transmission of this treasure of knowledge that shapes man’s way or mode of life.

c. Progress of civilization – To reorganize, reconstruct and improve human experience to improve society.