“Modern Education”January 22, 2010

“Why do we do what we do?” is a commonly asked question by parents, administrators and even students at Christiana. In an effort to better understand the educational options we consider for our homeschooled students, several tutors at the academy are delving into some of these educational options.

Madeline Jones, 12th grade Great Books tutor, spoke recently about the “Modern Education.” While it is hard to affix a precise definition to the “modern education” concept, several characteristics of this educational “thought” stand out.

First, a modern education will tend toward one of the following: the student being highly trained and not having exposure to a broad educational opportunity OR just the opposite. The student could have a broad educational opportunity without the ability to delve more deeply into particular areas of interest. The first example where a student is highly trained can be seen in schools where a student must choose a particular area of focus or must declare a “major” in high school. The student may choose an engineering “focus” and then spend time in advanced science and math courses. However, the study of history, literature, language and the arts may be minimized. The second option, where the student receives a broad education, is seen in many schools today. In an effort to create a well-rounded student, the opportunity for deep study is limited because of classroom size, and curriculum restrictions. The modern education is a necessary starting point, but we should move a step further.

A highly specialized education is necessary at some point in the educational journey as is a broad understanding of many areas of study. However, in both of these options, many times the “heart” or passion of learning is missing. Aristotle sums it up nicely when he says “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” Jones emphasizes that in any form of education, a mentor can be helpful to lead a young person in their passion. The mentor’s job is to impart instruction, ask questions and force application on a private level. Mentoring is an excellent way to benefit from any education. Whether it is a teacher, tutor, parent or pastor who takes on the role of mentor, they can provide the “heart” to the educational experience.