Unit 1

Module 1: Activity 1-1

In Mr. de Quiros’ opinion, what is the main difference between education and schooling?

The succeeding paragraphs will tackle the main difference between Education and Schooling according to columnist, Conrad de Quiros.

SCHOOLING

       Schooling “aims” to “educate” people.  Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

Schooling could identify your stature in the society.  It is what you write on your resume when you apply for a job.  It is a credential.  However, there is also a downside to this.  Knowing one’s stature also creates invisible divisions in the society. 

Having said these, sometimes, proper schooling creates arrogant, rude, “uneducated” adults.  Being civilized is not a prerequisite of proper schooling.

 

EDUCATION

       Education could be experienced not just within the four walls of a classroom.  It is not merely a reflection of what authors say on books.  Education is experienced first hand by each person.  We don’t have to pay matriculation to be educated.  It is basically how we relate to the world out there, thus it is the people that we encounter everyday who could tell whether we are educated or not; not our teachers.  There are poor people who are more educated than rich, properly schooled ones.  Education molds the character of a person and not just his academic intellect, unlike schooling.  Education makes people act in a civilized manner.

                When I was a kid, my teachers taught me that my ancestors had black skin, kinky hair and flat nose.  Very much like the African race.  I have nothing against it.  In fact, I think they are beautiful people.  Unfortunately, at that very young age, society wanted our generation to believe that there was a certain standard for beauty.  Beautiful people should have fair complexion, long silky hair and pointed nose.  Though I was a bit skeptic about my real heritage, it made an impact on me as a Filipino...