Why do we educate people? Philosophers, governments and teachers have answered this question in many ways. This guide explains the main aims of education, its key objectives, and the functions education performs in society, topics that often appear in education and sociology courses.
Aims vs. Objectives vs. Functions
- Aims are broad, long-term purposes, such as developing good citizens.
- Objectives are more specific, measurable targets, such as “students will be able to write a persuasive essay.”
- Functions describe what education actually does in society, whether intended or not.
The Three Main Aims of Education
Different writers group them in different ways, but three aims appear again and again:
- Individual (personal) aim: to develop each person’s full potential: intellectual, emotional, physical and moral.
- Social aim: to prepare people to live together, respect others and contribute to their community as responsible citizens.
- Vocational (economic) aim: to give people the knowledge and skills to earn a living and contribute to the economy.
Other commonly mentioned aims include cultural aims (passing on language, values and heritage) and moral or character aims.
What Is the Most Important Objective of Education?
Many educators argue that the most important objective is holistic development: helping learners grow not just in knowledge, but in thinking skills, character and the ability to keep learning throughout life. A person who can think critically and learn independently can adapt to a changing world.
The Four Functions of Education in Society
Sociologists often describe four main functions:
- Socialisation: teaching the norms, values and skills needed to live in society, such as punctuality, cooperation and respect.
- Cultural transmission: passing on a society’s knowledge, language, history and traditions to the next generation.
- Social integration: bringing people from different backgrounds together around shared values and a shared identity.
- Social placement and innovation: sorting people into roles based on their abilities and qualifications, and producing new knowledge and ideas through research.
Some sociologists also point to “latent” or unintended functions, such as providing childcare, creating friendships, or, more critically, reproducing existing social inequalities.
UNESCO’s Four Pillars of Learning
A widely cited UNESCO report from 1996, Learning: The Treasure Within (the Delors Report), described four pillars of education:
- Learning to know: gaining knowledge and learning how to learn.
- Learning to do: developing practical and professional skills.
- Learning to live together: understanding others and working together peacefully.
- Learning to be: developing one’s personality, judgement and responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the three aims of education?
Commonly, the individual aim (personal development), the social aim (good citizenship) and the vocational aim (preparation for work).
What are the four functions of education?
Socialisation, cultural transmission, social integration, and social placement and innovation.
Conclusion
Education aims to develop the whole person, prepare responsible citizens and equip people for work, while performing important functions for society as a whole. See also the 10 benefits of education.
