The Value of Education

The Value of Education

Learning and knowledge are highly prized in all societies, especially here in Ireland, where there is a strong tradition of respect for education. The choices that individuals make when leaving school, in particular whether to pursue higher education or not, are likely to have a long lasting effect on their lifestyle. The main purposes for a University education involve: social, national and educational purposes and for the individual personal purposes and moral development. These topics will be addressed in the following paragraphs.

The two main institutions predominantly concerned with education are Universities and Schools. It may be argued that the main purpose of Universities is to advance the individuals' knowledge to meet the needs of industries and other professions. Education is the main aim of these establishments but incidentally a lot more in terms of social education is gained. Mainly due to people of different settings being thrown together. More is learnt in conversation, relationships, societies and other informal settings. Therefore the experience of attending such a culturally broad based University broadens the individuals mind and exposes the individual to circumstances not yet experienced.

The social purposes of a University education have changed radically over the years, with a College education becoming a socially compulsory stage in life. The fact that it is readily available to all who qualify leads to the development of social chances of individuals. These opportunities include; improved standard of living due to successful employment, therefore more security and increased leisure time. Therefore schooling undeniably adds to the social earnings of individuals, a...

... middle of paper ...

...s been successfully accomplished throughout Irelands developing period. Other main objectives of University education would include meeting social demands and educational objectives. This leads to self-determination and autonomy, greater freedom of lifestyle and also a wider choice of employment for individuals. The relevance of University education to today's society is quite great, creating desirable employment almost anywhere in Europe or indeed worldwide. Whether the attraction or purpose for attending University is educational or purely for the experience of student life in general, it's a worthwhile experience. The chance to further ones education and also experience the social element in University is indeed an opportunity not to miss out on. A University education develops an individual both intellectually and socially which cannot be obtained elsewhere.