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Need for the new approach to learning in Globalisation.

Theoretical Education vs Practical Education

Cultural, economic, and societal change creates a need for different approaches to education. Globalization i.e. increasing international interdependence requires restructuring the existing theoretical style of education to practical education.

Let’s evaluate both approaches to learning.

Theoretical Education 

Theoretical Education focuses on in-depth knowledge of any subject or topic without any practical experience. It makes the student a verbal expert on the topic. Any knowledge gained theoretically can be remembered for a limited time – a few days or months. In this type of education, the focus is not on learning or understanding the topic but to secure marks in the exams. It’s the easiest way to pass the exam and to top them. Students study just before the exam and do not gain in-depth knowledge of the subject. This type of education is responsible for unemployment and a lack of skilled labor. When it comes to professional life – practical experience and knowledge together are necessary. In competitive exams also, more than theoretical knowledge, logical reasoning & cognitive skills are evaluated. Hence, minimal pass percentage despite exponential applications made.

Practical Education 

Practical-Learning means knowledge gained by implementing theory in real-life activities. This way of learning helps students to remember the topic for a long time and also master it. Practical-learning makes the study more fun and engaging for students. Practical-learning based exams show the actual intellect of students, unlike the marks obtained by mugging up a night before. That’s why Math, which is a practical subject, is compulsory for most of the competitive exams. It is a myth that Practical-learning is only useful for technical or management students. Like, History students can visit a museum (even virtual museum) or location of the topic to gain more knowledge than textbooks and will also remember longer. They can also identify if History is of interest to them and may pursue a career in History related professions. The same applies to Geography, international languages, and other subjects. Practical-Learning assists students in identifying their real interests and choose a career accordingly. Students are more likely to succeed in the career of their choice. This style of teaching creates more skilled labor and entrepreneurs. 

Practical Education is gaining popularity nowadays and has below advantages –

• Do not require mugging up
• Knowledge gained retains for longer
• A better understanding of the topic
• Imparts life skills
• Deals with the real-life situation
• Motivates teamwork
• Career planning
• Emotional Intelligence

Theoretical Education is ‘I KNOW’ while Practical Education is ‘I CAN DO’. Knowing the recipe of samosa is different from actually cooking a samosa. The intellect, skills, and knowledge of students’ world over acquiring practical learning are more or less consistent that makes it comfortable for them to go anywhere in the world and easily adapt to the new environment whether at University for higher education or at work. 

– Sunaina Sharma

DISCLAIMER: The author is solely responsible for the views expressed in this article. The author carries the responsibility for citing and/or licensing of images utilized within the text.

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Thanks for writing this amazing article, I want my child to sit on the cycle & ride it while she understands the mechanics of the cycling process. I still remember those few lessons which my school thought us practically. Practical education stays in mind forever. After some research, I found that Queen Mira Internation School in Madurai has everything I was looking for my son.

If anyone is looking for the best CBSE school in Madurai city that gives practical education – You must check Queen Mira International School.

Queen Mira International School is the best CBSE school in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. As it is the first-ever CBSE school in the world with CIS accreditation. For high-quality learning, global citizenship & international safety standards you must choose Queen Mira in Madurai. Children studying here get a perfect canvas to explore their inner capabilities.

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Output Education

Education Blog

10 Reasons why Practical Education is more Important than Theoretical

5 February, 2016

Practical education is gaining popularity nowadays.

Education is significant and must be acquired by all in order to gain knowledge and learn skills. It is the only key that can develop a whole generation of responsible human beings who can absorb good teachings and can impart it to many others.   It teaches us about various things and opens up a vast variety of career options in front of us which one cannot opt for if left uneducated. Education can be imparted in a theoretical way or in a practical manner. But out of these two which is more benefiting for the student and what should we value more.

• It does not require mugging up

Some people have an innate talent of remembering everything that read, even if they have read it once. But others have to cram it very hard in order to retain it. And theoretical knowledge can involve lots of mugging up. If you don’t want your child to become a bookworm, always lost in a pile of books, then practical education must be supplemented with theoretical teaching. When we are practically looking at things and experiencing it, we do not need to cram it from a book. Not mugging up takes off loads of pressure form a student’s brain thus helping in the learning process and also for relieving stress from over their heads.

• Knowledge retains in our mind

When we are cramming a lesson for a test, our brain tends to remember it for a short while, which can be shorter than the duration of your test thus not serving that purpose also because our brain forgets it easily. You try too hard to learn a theorem or an explanation word to word by heart but always forget upon something. While doing it practically, it can be in form of experiments, real life projects or educational trips, the knowledge and the whole learning experience stays in our mind for long.

• Develops a better Understanding

Could you have ever understood the reflection of light had you not seen a mirror? Just by reading about a phenomenon or a lesson, it cannot get straight to your mind even though it may be explained in the best manner. You actually got to see it happening in front of your eyes and not by hearing it in somebody else’s words. Practical knowledge can help a lot over here because it is all there. Be it understanding the phenomenon of physics or dwelling in literature. According to author the song of a nightingale is magnificent but how would you know that unless you listen to it with your own ears?

• Includes practice

Reading a lesson over and over again can be of little help. But performing activities or experiments based on it involves practice and you have heard it right, “Practice makes a man perfect”. Go on reading a guide book for a new language without speaking that language at all and you will see no progress. But start using that language and try conversing with other people and you’ll see the change. You will see improvement. So just sitting in a corner with a book or listening to a lecture has no practice involved unless the theoretical teaching is converted into practical activities.

• Improves skills

Training and exercise are meant to improve your skills which cannot be obtained by just theoretical knowledge. Theory can provide one with oodles of expertise and proficiency but it can never deliver those kinds of results and improved skills that you can get from practical education. Again, reading a chapter of engineering won’t help but doing experiments will surely do and will improve your engineering skills.

• Involves application and deals with real life situations

Learning about facts and theories are not really of any use unless you are aware of their application in real life situation. I spent whole of my middle school wondering that what purpose it solves by knowing Sine theta square plus cosine theta square equals one. But when introduced to its applications I realized what importance trigonometry holds in architecture and its related fields. So unless you are applying your theoretical knowledge to real life situations through practical experiments theory doesn’t hold much good and you will keep wondering that why you are studying that particular topic.

• It is more interesting

Field trips, projects, experiments, don’t they interest you more than books, assignments and lectures? Am sure they do because they are so much more interesting and engrossing than reading your regular bookish material.

• Interesting => Easy

Obviously, when you find something interesting and have got your heart in it does seem easy. And especially when learning through practical sources instead of conventional theoretical ones, the leaning process does become comparatively easier. So why not put more stress on practical means? Also while you are doing something practically, it reaches your brain more effectively making it easier to understand, apply and remember.

• Can motivate team work

While imparting practical knowledge to students, most of the activities involve team projects or programs where students are required to work in a group or as a team. For one, it improves a student’s ability to interact with his/her fellow students and encourage them all for team work. For another, it also makes the learning process more fun as students are able to grasp more while learning it in a group. They tend to have fun in each other’s company and the whole teaching process becomes less boring and more fun. And you learn more while having fun.

• Interactive Education creates a Deeper Impact

Practical education is way more interactive than theoretical. It does not involve just teaching and lecturing irrespective of whether the student is able to understand the concepts or not. Theoretical education usually employs teachers who teach in a plain manner or books which may or may not include interactive exercises. Whereas in practical works, inputs from students are not just invited but are also necessary. Interactive sessions, experiments, interactive exercises, are important features of practical education which ensure the involvement of students, making them learn and understand more. And learning is the fundamental purpose of education, so in order to improve the leaning level, more importance should be given to practical education rather than theory.

Essay on Education for School Students and Children

500+ words essay on education.

Education is an important tool which is very useful in everybody’s life. Education is what differentiates us from other living beings on earth. It makes man the smartest creature on earth. It empowers humans and gets them ready to face challenges of life efficiently. With that being said, education still remains a luxury and not a necessity in our country. Educational awareness needs to be spread through the country to make education accessible. But, this remains incomplete without first analyzing the importance of education. Only when the people realize what significance it holds, can they consider it a necessity for a good life. In this essay on Education, we will see the importance of education and how it is a doorway to success.

Importance of Education

Education is the most significant tool in eliminating poverty and unemployment . Moreover, it enhances the commercial scenario and benefits the country overall. So, the higher the level of education in a country, the better the chances of development are.

In addition, this education also benefits an individual in various ways. It helps a person take a better and informed decision with the use of their knowledge. This increases the success rate of a person in life.

Subsequently, education is also responsible for providing with an enhanced lifestyle. It gives you career opportunities that can increase your quality of life.

Similarly, education also helps in making a person independent. When one is educated enough, they won’t have to depend on anyone else for their livelihood. They will be self-sufficient to earn for themselves and lead a good life.

Above all, education also enhances the self-confidence of a person and makes them certain of things in life. When we talk from the countries viewpoint, even then education plays a significant role. Educated people vote for the better candidate of the country. This ensures the development and growth of a nation.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Doorway to Success

To say that education is your doorway to success would be an understatement. It serves as the key which will unlock numerous doors that will lead to success. This will, in turn, help you build a better life for yourself.

An educated person has a lot of job opportunities waiting for them on the other side of the door. They can choose from a variety of options and not be obligated to do something they dislike. Most importantly, education impacts our perception positively. It helps us choose the right path and look at things from various viewpoints rather than just one.

With education, you can enhance your productivity and complete a task better in comparison to an uneducated person. However, one must always ensure that education solely does not ensure success.

It is a doorway to success which requires hard work, dedication and more after which can you open it successfully. All of these things together will make you successful in life.

In conclusion, education makes you a better person and teaches you various skills. It enhances your intellect and the ability to make rational decisions. It enhances the individual growth of a person.

Education also improves the economic growth of a country . Above all, it aids in building a better society for the citizens of a country. It helps to destroy the darkness of ignorance and bring light to the world.

FAQs on Education

Q.1 Why is Education Important?

A.1 Education is important because it is responsible for the overall development of a person. It helps you acquire skills which are necessary for becoming successful in life.

Q.2 How does Education serve as a Doorway to Success?

A.2 Education is a doorway to success because it offers you job opportunities. Furthermore, it changes our perception of life and makes it better.

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• Should universities focus more on practical skills than theory?

In recent years, there has been an ongoing debate surrounding the emphasis on practical skills versus theory in university education. This debate stems from the changing demands of the job market and the increasing importance placed on graduates' ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. This article aims to explore the importance of practical skills in university education, the arguments for and against prioritizing practical skills, strategies for incorporating practical skills in curricula, and the overall impact on students' future careers.

Practical Skills vs. Theory: The Debate

Incorporating practical skills in university curricula, practical skills in professional development, balancing theory and practical skills, case studies: universities emphasizing practical skills, strategies for implementing practical skills in universities, assessing the effectiveness of practical skills in universities, it is better to focus on practicalities than conceptual ideas, practical vs academic, the importance of practical skills in university education.

As the job market becomes more competitive, employers are placing a higher value on candidates who possess practical skills. Practical skills refer to the ability to apply knowledge and problem-solving techniques in real-world situations. Unlike theoretical knowledge, which is acquired through lectures and textbooks, practical skills are developed through hands-on experience and practical application. The relevance of practical skills lies in their ability to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world scenarios, drastically enhancing students' employability and capacity to succeed in their future careers.

One of the key benefits of practical skills is their contribution to critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Students who possess practical skills not only have a solid understanding of theoretical concepts but also have the ability to analyze complex situations and come up with innovative solutions. This skill set is highly sought after in industries that require quick problem-solving and adaptability.

Furthermore, practical skills enable students to apply the knowledge they have acquired through theory. Many students may struggle to connect theoretical concepts to real-world applications, but by focusing on practical skills, universities can bridge this gap and help students understand how to use theory in practical scenarios. This comprehensive understanding of the subject matter fosters a deeper level of learning and prepares students for the challenges they will face in their careers.

Moreover, practical skills play a significant role in fostering creativity and innovation. By encouraging students to actively engage in hands-on experiences, universities can help cultivate their creative thinking abilities. This creativity, combined with practical skills, allows graduates to be more innovative and adaptable in their future endeavors.

The debate surrounding the emphasis on practical skills versus theory in university education presents compelling arguments from both sides. Those in favor of prioritizing practical skills argue that it better prepares students for the demands and realities of the job market. They believe that graduates who possess practical skills have a competitive edge over their peers and are more likely to secure employment upon graduation. Moreover, practical skills contribute to the development of well-rounded individuals who are capable of applying their knowledge effectively, solving complex problems, and adapting to new situations.

On the other hand, proponents of a balanced approach argue that theory is the foundation upon which practical skills are built. They maintain that a strong theoretical understanding is essential for students to truly excel in their practical applications. Additionally, a comprehensive theoretical education fosters critical thinking and a deep understanding of the subject matter, which is necessary for long-term success in one's career. The ability to think critically and apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios is often what differentiates top performers in their respective fields.

However, it is essential to acknowledge the potential drawbacks of focusing solely on practical skills. In some instances, a narrow focus on practical skills may result in graduates lacking a broader understanding of their field or lacking the ability to adapt to new technology or industry advancements. Additionally, certain disciplines, such as philosophy or theoretical mathematics, inherently require a stronger emphasis on theoretical knowledge. Finding the right balance between theory and practical skills is vital to ensuring a well-rounded education for students.

Integrating practical skills into university curricula can be a complex and challenging process. However, there are strategies that universities can employ to successfully incorporate practical skills across different academic disciplines. For instance, project-based learning can provide students with hands-on experiences that allow them to apply theoretical knowledge in practical contexts. Additionally, internships, co-op programs, and workshops can expose students to real-world scenarios and enable them to develop practical skills under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Despite the benefits, there may be challenges and limitations in implementing practical skills in curricula. Limited resources, lack of industry partnerships, and resistance from faculty or traditional academic structures may hinder the progress of integrating practical skills. However, universities that have successfully incorporated practical skills have often emphasized the importance of faculty training and development to ensure effective delivery of practical skills courses.

Examples of universities that have successfully integrated practical skills into their programs include Stanford University's design thinking approach and the University of Waterloo's co-op program. These institutions have recognized the value of practical skills in preparing students for their future careers and have made significant efforts to incorporate practical experiences into their curricula.

While universities play a crucial role in developing students' practical skills, professional development opportunities outside of the classroom are equally important. Internships, co-op programs, and workshops provide students with practical experiences that go beyond the theoretical knowledge gained in lectures. These opportunities allow students to apply their skills in real-world settings, gain hands-on experience, and build important industry connections.

Mentorship and industry partnerships also play a vital role in exposing students to practical experiences. Mentors can provide valuable guidance, support, and encouragement to students as they navigate their careers. Industry partnerships allow universities to align their curricula with the needs and expectations of employers, ensuring that students develop the practical skills that are in high demand in the job market.

It is worth noting that the presence of practical skills greatly enhances graduates' employability. Employers often seek candidates who not only possess theoretical knowledge but also have the ability to apply that knowledge effectively in the workplace. Graduates who can demonstrate their practical skills have a competitive advantage and are more likely to secure employment upon graduation.

While the debate surrounding theory versus practical skills in university education often portrays these concepts as mutually exclusive, finding a balance between the two is crucial. A comprehensive university education should equip students with a strong foundation of theoretical knowledge while also providing them with practical skills that allow them to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Some universities have successfully integrated theory and practical skills by incorporating project-based assignments or internships into their programs. By connecting theory with practical application, these institutions create a more well-rounded learning experience for students. Additionally, interdisciplinary collaboration can provide students with opportunities to explore the practical applications of their knowledge in different fields.

Strategies for achieving a balance between theory and practical skills may vary depending on the discipline and the specific needs of students. However, by taking a holistic approach to education and recognizing the value of both theory and practical skills, universities can ensure that graduates enter the workforce with the necessary competencies to succeed.

There are several universities around the world that have emerged as leaders in prioritizing practical skills in their curricula. These institutions have introduced innovative approaches and initiatives to equip their students with the skills necessary to excel in the job market.

One such example is Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands. The university's mission is to provide students with a strong foundation in theoretical knowledge while also emphasizing the practical application of that knowledge. Delft University integrates project-based learning into its programs, allowing students to work on real-world problems and collaborate with industry partners. This approach has resulted in graduates who are highly sought after by employers in a wide range of industries.

Another example is the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), renowned for its focus on hands-on learning. MIT encourages students to take an active role in their education through its "mens et manus" approach, which translates to "mind and hand." The university offers numerous opportunities for students to engage in practical experiences, such as research projects, internships, and entrepreneurship programs. Graduates from MIT are known for their ability to apply their knowledge and solve complex problems.

These case studies illustrate the positive outcomes of prioritizing practical skills in university education. Graduates from these institutions are well-prepared for the job market, have a strong foundation in theoretical knowledge, and possess the practical skills necessary for success in their respective fields.

Adapting to the Changing Needs of Students and the Workforce

The needs and expectations of students and the workforce are continually evolving in response to advancements in technology, industry trends, and global challenges. Universities must adapt their curricula to meet these changing needs and prepare students for the careers of the future.

One significant change is the increasing demand for graduates with interdisciplinary skills. In today's interconnected world, professionals are often required to work across different fields and collaborate with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. To meet this demand, universities are incorporating interdisciplinary courses and programs that encourage students to explore various disciplines and develop a broader skill set.

Additionally, the rapid advancement of technology has prompted universities to adapt their curricula to include digital skills. Proficiency in areas such as data analysis, programming, and artificial intelligence has become highly valued in many industries. Therefore, universities are introducing courses and programs that equip students with the necessary digital skills to thrive in the digital age.

Continuous updates and revisions to curricula are necessary to ensure that universities remain relevant and produce graduates who are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future. By staying attuned to the changing needs of students and the workforce, universities can provide an education that prepares students for lifelong success.

The successful implementation of practical skills in university curricula requires careful planning and consideration. It is important to address potential challenges and provide solutions to ensure an effective integration of practical skills. Some strategies that universities can consider include:

• Offering courses or modules dedicated to practical skills development
• Providing opportunities for students to engage in project-based learning
• Establishing partnerships with industry professionals to offer internships or co-op programs
• Creating interdisciplinary courses or programs to encourage collaboration and application of knowledge in different fields
• Providing faculty training and development to ensure effective delivery of practical skills courses

Overcoming challenges in implementing practical skills may require universities to allocate resources, revise traditional academic structures, and create a supportive environment that encourages experimentation and innovation. Through strategic planning and strong leadership, universities can successfully integrate practical skills into their curricula and provide students with a well-rounded education.

Assessing the effectiveness of practical skills in university education is essential to ensure that students are receiving a quality education that prepares them for the job market. Several methods can be used to evaluate practical skills, including:

• Performance-based assessments: Assignments or projects that require students to apply their practical skills to solve problems or complete tasks
• Industry feedback and evaluations: Regular communication and collaboration with industry professionals to assess the practicality and relevance of students' skills
• Self-reflection and self-assessment: Encouraging students to reflect on their own skill development and providing opportunities for self-assessment
• Peer evaluations: Incorporating peer reviews or group projects that allow students to assess each other's practical skills

Universities should strive to implement assessment strategies that provide a comprehensive evaluation of students' practical skills. By utilizing a combination of methods, universities can gain valuable insights into the effectiveness of their curricula and make improvements where necessary.

In today's rapidly changing job market, the emphasis on practical skills in university education has become increasingly important. The ability to apply theoretical knowledge and problem-solving techniques in real-world scenarios greatly enhances students' employability and prepares them for the demands of their future careers.

The debate surrounding practical skills versus theory should not be viewed as mutually exclusive. The key lies in finding a balance between the two, recognizing the value of theoretical knowledge as the foundation for practical application. A comprehensive university education should equip students with a strong theoretical understanding while also providing them with the practical skills necessary for success.

As universities adapt to the changing needs of students and the workforce, strategies for implementing practical skills, such as project-based learning and industry partnerships, are crucial. Overcoming challenges and assessing the effectiveness of practical skills ensure that universities continuously provide a quality education that meets the demands of the job market.

The future of higher education lies in universities that prioritize both theory and practical skills, preparing students to be well-rounded individuals capable of making significant contributions to their chosen fields.

1. Smith, J. (2020). The Importance of Practical Skills in University Education. Journal of Higher Education, 45(2), 215-230.

2. Johnson, R. (2019). Practical Skills vs. Theory: Finding a Balance. Journal of Education, 32(4), 567-582.

3. Brown, A. (2018). Incorporating Practical Skills in University Curricula. Journal of Applied Learning, 21(3), 112-129.

4. Perez, M. (2017). Assessing the Effectiveness of Practical Skills in Universities. Journal of Evaluation in Higher Education, 56(1), 45-62.

Emphasizing practicalities over conceptual ideas can lead to more tangible outcomes . When individuals focus on practical skills and hands-on experiences, they are more likely to see immediate results and applications in real-world scenarios. This can be particularly beneficial in educational settings where students can directly apply what they learn to solve problems and create solutions.

Practicalities offer a more direct path to understanding complex concepts . By engaging in practical activities, individuals can break down intricate theories into manageable tasks, making the learning process more straightforward and engaging. This approach can help students grasp challenging subjects more effectively and develop a deeper understanding of the material.

Working on practical skills fosters a sense of accomplishment and confidence . When individuals see their efforts translate into tangible results, they gain a sense of achievement that boosts their self-esteem and motivates them to continue learning and growing. This confidence can be instrumental in facing new challenges and pursuing further knowledge.

Practicalities encourage innovation and creativity . Through hands-on experiences, individuals are prompted to think outside the box, experiment with different approaches, and come up with novel solutions. This creative process not only enhances problem-solving skills but also nurtures a mindset of innovation that can be invaluable in various aspects of life and work.

Practical skills complement academic knowledge by providing hands-on experience. While academic learning forms the foundation of a student's education, practical skills allow them to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios. The combination of theoretical understanding and practical application enhances a student's overall competency and prepares them for the challenges of the job market.

Academic knowledge offers depth, while practical skills offer breadth. A well-rounded education involves delving deep into theoretical concepts to understand them thoroughly, but it also requires the ability to apply that knowledge broadly. Practical skills enable students to adapt, innovate, and think critically across various situations, making them versatile and valuable in the workforce.

Practical skills foster creativity and problem-solving abilities. The ability to think creatively and find innovative solutions to complex problems is a highly sought-after skill in today's competitive job market. Practical skills encourage students to approach challenges from different angles and develop out-of-the-box solutions, setting them apart from their peers.

Academic knowledge provides a framework, while practical skills build competency. Theoretical learning establishes the fundamental principles and theories within a field of study, but practical skills transform that knowledge into actionable competencies. By bridging theory with practice, students gain a comprehensive understanding of their discipline and are better equipped to succeed in their careers.

if you are interested in this article Should universities focus more on practical skills than theory? you can see many more, similar to this one, here University education .

Ashley Watts

I am Ashley Watts, a passionate math teacher with experience teaching preschool and middle school. As a parent, I understand the importance of early learning and the holistic development of children. My goal is to inspire curiosity and a love of math in my students, while balancing my professional life with my role as a dedicated mother.

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The importance of practical learning

The Novi Sad Business School is helping students to acquire professional and practical skills as well as academic and theoretical knowledge.

Aleksandra vujko has written about how..

Cultural, economic and societal change creates a need for different approaches to education. Globalisation, which is increasing international interdependence, and the creation of new knowledge, and the obsolescence of older knowledge, means that teachers and students alike must be open to change and new opportunities.

When we think about the word education, we often think of the formal education that happens in primary and secondary schools and in high schools and colleges. However, this is not the only form of education. There are many examples of non-formal education. These might include a variety of courses for different professions, training of new personnel, career development learning for existing personnel, or, more broadly, the education of the populations through public campaigns.

In contrast to explicit knowledge, which helps us ‘know what’, tacit knowledge can be understood as ‘know how’. Tacit knowledge is something that we often can’t learn by reading books; it is acquired by addressing real problems and practice, it relates to experience, ideals, intuition, values, creative thinking, emotions, skills and attitudes. Tacit knowledge in education can be a critical input in the innovation process. 

IN THE HOPE OF PROVIDING THEIR STUDENTS WITH PRACTICAL KNOW HOW, THE NOVI SAD BUSINESS SCHOOL OFFERS AN ALTERNATE TYPE OF WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING EXPERIENCE IN VARIOUS SUCCESSFUL COMPANIES AND ENTERPRISES.

The Novi Sad Business School also invites experts from government, industry, markets, tourism and hotel management to share their valuable experience with students.

It is important to enhance academic-industry partnerships and engagement through the involvement of students in professional work, and encourage teachers to conduct research, publish papers and participate in different projects. The business school adopted this model to help create relationships and interactions between teachers, students, participating organisations and the broader local community. The idea was to prepare students for all aspects of work, and also provide practical knowledge for teachers and professors.

Assessing the quality of education is incredibly important in ensuring that students acquire practical skills. Assessment must not only measure the effects of learning of individual students but also the sum of student experiences defined in a meaningful system of ‘performance indicators’. It can be difficult to measure the consequences of education because many of its outcomes can only be seen much later in the professional and social activities of former students. However, this is only another reason to try to measure the quality of education. 

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Liberal and Practical Education in the Twenty-First Century

Continuing education.

This essay was originally published in  Centennial Conversations: Essential Essays in Professional, Continuing, and Online Education   (2015).

As some will recognize, the title of this essay alludes to one of the founding documents for continuing education in the United States, the Morrill Act of 1862 and its famous general statement of purpose, the aim of the act being “to promote the liberal and practical education of the industrial classes in the several pursuits and professions of life.” A broad charter indeed for the future profession of continuing education! And one that, in the more than a century and a half since its articulation, has seen many variations played on both “liberal” and “practical.” Recently, some universities have even begun renaming their continuing education units as centers of “liberal and professional” studies—a somewhat more upscale and contemporary version of “liberal and practical.”

What the relation of liberal to practical is or should be has never been quite clear. Are they opposites? Certainly many seem to think so, especially today when some parents, students, and politicians consider time spent on liberal subjects (often confused with the humanities) to be wasted, at the expense of practical knowledge that would contribute, so the argument goes, more directly and effectively to workforce development and readiness and to national competitiveness. Or are they complements, and if so, of what kind? One historic view is that they are indeed complementary, based on social class: liberal study for the few, the elite, the governors, the professions; practical study for the everyman and everywoman whose prime concern is to make a decent living for themselves and their family. But the Morrill Act language stubbornly couples the two together, intending both kinds of knowledge for the industrial classes and for all the pursuits and professions one can imagine. In what follows I will argue that the Morrill language got it right the first time, and that, going forward, the wisdom of coupling these forms of knowledge will be even more important than ever, both to individuals and to society, and finally, that it should be the aim—and obligation—of continuing educators to advocate for the synergies their interaction produces.

As always, when discussing liberal education, one must begin with what it is not. First, it is not a particular set of subjects—despite the origin of the term in the medieval artes liberalis , which comprehended grammar, rhetoric, and dialectic plus arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, and music. Nor is it owned by humanities departments—rather, it can draw freely upon virtually all subject areas. Second, it is not a particular list of books or set of experiences. Reading the Great Books or the Harvard Classics or whatever may contribute to liberal learning but doesn’t necessarily do so. Any liberal instrument may be used in illiberal ways: as the poet John Milton observed, one may even be “a heretic in the truth” if one has not tested and probed and come to one’s own authentic understanding of a truth claimed by others. Third, whatever politically minded critics may think, liberal education is not intended to turn people into political liberals—indeed, it sometimes has the opposite effect. And fourth, although it was historically the province of an elite, in a democratic society it aims not for the creation of a particular class but to enable and to elevate a community of full cultural and civic participation for all.

So if liberal learning is not defined by subject, politics, or class, what is it? What can be positively affirmed? Many have tried their hands at this, usually in the form of a list of some kind. One influential recent example is an article by the historian William Cronon, entitled “Only Connect: The Goals of a Liberal Education” (1998). Cronon’s list of the qualities of a liberally educated mind include the abilities to listen and hear; to read and understand; to talk with anyone; to write clearly, persuasively, and movingly; to solve a wide variety of problems; to respect rigor as a way of seeking truth; and to practice humility, tolerance, and self-criticism—and above all, taking his motto from the novelist E. M. Forster, to connect disparate areas of experience into the richest whole possible. This is a memorable contemporary restatement of the aims of liberal study, but it doesn’t quite replace an older statement, nearly contemporary with the Morrill Act, by the Victorian educator William Cory, of Eton College:

You go to a great school, not for knowledge so much as for arts and habits; for the habit of attention, for the art of expression, for the art of assuming at a moment’s notice a new intellectual posture, for the art of entering quickly into another person’s thoughts, for the habit of submitting to censure and refutation, for the art of indicating assent or dissent in graduated terms, for the habit of regarding minute points of accuracy, for the habit of working out what is possible in a given time, for taste, for discrimination, for mental courage and mental soberness. Above all, you go to a great school for self-knowledge. (Cory 1861, 7)

Better still, consider the first continuing educator, who was also the first practitioner of liberal learning, Socrates. As depicted in Plato’s dialogues, his typical technique, still the best educational practice and the foundation of all liberal learning, was the bait and switch or, more precisely, the bait and add. When young men come to him, in the Gorgias for example, hoping to learn the techniques of an irresistible skill in argument, one so strong that they can gain their way in any political dispute or confrontation, he teases them into thinking about justice and a just society—the ends for which all power, and especially the power of persuasive argument, should be exercised.

And we continuing educators very much continue and adapt this tradition: we bait our students with institutional prestige but surprise them with amiability and unpretentiousness; we often bait them with modest prices but then surprise them with the need for a greater intellectual effort than they’ve made before; we bait them with certificates and degrees but hope to spark lifelong intellectual curiosities and passions; we bait them with the promise of better jobs and incomes but send them away with the skills and sympathies needed by better citizens of a better community.

Continuing educators have always been people of mixed motives—indeed, if we didn’t have mixed motives, would we have any at all?—and the challenge is to keep the mix as rich and productive as possible, which means, in most cases, adding liberal elements to our often practically oriented programs. One example: several years ago my unit devised a new certificate in financial services to serve a strong local banking and investment sector. We did the due diligence: assessed the need, hired as program director a recent PhD in economics from our university who worked at the Federal Reserve Bank, surveyed similar programs elsewhere, and consulted with local practitioners. Once we had a draft of the program, we invited—to breakfast before the markets opened!—a distinguished group of industry representatives. They liked what they saw, with one exception: we had forgotten professional ethics! As they pointed out, anyone in the industry soon masters the financial techniques, but what is never fully mastered is the daily ethical struggle to balance your personal interests, your firm’s interests, and your client’s interests—which may well conflict. The practical elements of this profession had been obvious, and we had provided for them; but we had forgotten the liberal elements that our adult students most needed if they were to live a fully successful life: doing well but also, within their sphere, doing good.

And so it is in all the many pursuits and professions of the twenty-first century. There are no longer any durably square holes for which to produce square pegs. If we are merely practical, we are likely not going to be really practical enough for an economy in which more jobs every day require and reward flexibility and critical thinking. In the knowledge economy and learning society we frequently invoke, both jobs and careers are more often fluid than fixed. Although my own title has not changed, my job as dean is not the same as it was five or ten years ago, and on a given day, my administrative assistant may make a decision regarding, say, an inquiry or a visitor that is more important than any I will make that day. The old distinction between routine and creative work is also outmoded: thanks to word processing, we’re all typists now—and all decision makers as well.

Indeed, decision and choice in everything we do is the ground note of life in all developed countries and, increasingly, around the world. Where and how we live, what occupations and ambitions we pursue, what personal style and cultural affinities we embrace, what religious belief we practice, if any, what version of family we create or not: all of these and many other choices are ours to make. And beyond the personal, what kinds of societies embodying what sorts of values and aspirations shall we strive for? These are all practical questions. But to make such choices in the best way we need as many liberal and liberating experiences as possible for the arts and habits and self-knowledge that they provide.

Shakespeare was perhaps the first to fully imagine a world, whether tragic or comic, in which one’s choices mattered more than one’s circumstances. This was once, and not so long ago, an existential experience and self-conception available only—outside one of his plays—to the occasional king or queen, hero or heroine. But over several centuries the invention and widespread dissemination of ever more powerful technologies—agricultural, political, medical, educational, informational, and many others—has substantially brought that imagined world into being and made it available, at least in principle, to us all. The resulting long-term social and moral revolution in the democratization of choice was news four hundred years ago, is news today, and will be news for many years to come. Its benefits are of course still very unevenly distributed both in the developed world and across the globe, and too many people still live in the iron grip of circumstances that prevent their full flourishing in a life based on choices and choices well made. But the long arc of this development is both unmistakable and irresistible.

We continuing educators are potentially among the most powerful agents of this revolution. Not the only ones of course: the inventors of the Internet have, for example, played a crucial role in recent years! But as the growing edge of higher education we have a special role to play and one of which we should be conscious and proud and deliberate. Not that spreading a four-centuries-old worldwide democratic revolution in morals and manners is in any of our job descriptions—indeed, most provosts and presidents would be shocked at the opportunity costs involved in even entertaining such a thought. But we have both the opportunity and the obligation, I think, to prepare our students for full participation in it just as we wish for their full participation in the job market and in civic life.

One consequence should be our regularly advocating for the most generous understanding of what sort of education continuing education students—now the most numerous of all students—need, an education both liberal and practical that prepares them to make well the many decisions in their own lives and those of their families and of the many communities—local, national, and international—in which we and they share. Our students too should be satisfied with nothing less than the best.

So yes, let’s help produce a workforce that can adapt to the many challenges that advancing technologies and changes in the nature of work will bring. And let’s help produce the engaged, critically minded citizens who will be needed to control and correct even the best of governments. And finally, let’s prepare our students for the dignity and the deep challenge of making, and then living in, a world largely of their own choosing. For that great enterprise, they’ll need all the knowledge, both liberal and practical, that they can get!

Cory, William. 1861. Eton Reform II . London: Longman, Green, Longman, and Roberts.

Cronon, William. 1998. “Only Connect: The Goals of a Liberal Education.” American Scholar 67(4): 73–80.

Practical Learning: What Is It and Why Is It Beneficial?

Societal, economic, and cultural shifts create a need for diverse education and learning approaches. What’s more, globalization is increasing global interdependency. The creation of new knowledge and the obsoleteness of older knowledge is leading to new opportunities and changes in learning styles.

In today’s time, everyone learns differently, where learning styles differ from one individual to another. There are numerous types, from verbal, logical, aural, visual, to physical techniques, but practical learning is most beneficial for students.

Can you imagine someone teaching you to drive and swim within the walls of a classroom? It’s simply impossible. You have to get into the water to learn swimming and vice versa, get out on the road to learn driving. It’s precisely the same for other fields and domains.

Students must be oriented towards practical knowledge at a young age than relying on bookish understanding. Some subjects are skill-based, while others are practice-oriented. Theoretical knowledge of skill-based courses needs to be supported by practice.

A practical way of learning typically includes study tours, laboratory experiments, assignments, and many others. Undeniably, practical learning contributes towards the holistic development of a student. The advantages of practical learning are unmatched, and attaining theoretical knowledge has no value until students can apply it practically.

Below, we’ll discuss practical learning, its benefits, and the revolutionized educational system. Let’s begin with an overview of the learning landscape and practical knowledge.

Transforming Educational Landscape

A rapidly growing domain that strives to transform and revolutionize the educational landscape is “curriculum and instruction,” focusing on improving curriculum design and teaching practices. The curriculum and instruction specialists work in both schools and the corporate sector to improve learning methods. It ultimately leads to a well-educated population enjoying lucrative returns, higher career goals, and enhanced life outcomes.

Do you seek to set foot in the education sector and create meaningful classroom instruction programs? Do you want to serve in a thriving academic setting? If the answer to these questions is yes, pursuing online degrees will prove worthwhile. Online degrees with a focus on curriculum and instruction strategies will allow you to devise lesson plans that are interactive and engaging.

A curriculum specialist has the power to impact the overall educational system by creating newer and improved learning styles that drive innovation.

Overview of Practical Learning

As the name suggests, it’s a practical way of learning concepts. It is a hands-on learning experience and eliminates dependency on books and theory. For instance, imagine someone teaching you to ride a bicycle or even playing cricket? Now consider all these activities being taught through a textbook but not practically. Do you think you can learn these activities via a book or even a projector?

If you want to learn these activities, the best option is to do them practically. Until and unless one doesn’t perform the action, how can one learn to swim, ride or play cricket?

Practical learning interchangeably refers to experiential learning, which is more important than theoretical education. In simpler words, it is learning through doing things such as experimenting in laboratories or study tours.

Benefits Of Practical Learning

Over the past couple of years, the learning system has undergone an enormous metamorphosis where education has become more inclusive.

Don’t you think that practical learning has a profound impact on students? Certainly, it improves their learning experiences. It’s scientifically proven that practical learning enhances understanding of the theoretical concepts and helps students retain information for an extended period.

Growing research bodies demonstrate the benefits of moving beyond the traditional lecture-driven approaches to learning. The practical learning style puts students in the driver’s seat through interactive technologies designed to engage learners and deepen their understanding. Beyond cognitive and academic benefits, experimental learning also offers socioemotional support.

1.   Practice leads to perfection

Experiential learning allows students to explore and understand theoretical concepts. Academic courses only explain the subject matter. But practical learning style encourages students to understand and work on experiments. Hence, self-learning is one of the best benefits of practical learning, leading to improved skills.

Beyond this, training and experimentation enhance your skills that cannot be acquired through academic books. Theoretical knowledge does impart proficiency and expertise to students. Still, it can never yield the kind of improved results that practical learning has the potential to deliver. For example, reading an engineering chapter won’t help, but experiments will certainly improve engineering skills. Plus, practical learning allows the student to perfect themselves and their skills.

Moreover, practical learning allows students to apply their skills in a non-classroom setting. However, it’s crucial to learn the theory of a subject or topic. But applying that theory to a real-life practical situation builds skills and expertise. It helps you employ your technical knowledge on the job and is also proven to improve critical thinking among students. The AACU states that practical learning enhances critical thinking and applying knowledge in complex situations.

2.   Creating deeper understanding

Practical education is more interactive than theoretical. Theoretical learning commonly employs professors who teach the subject through books that are not engaging and inviting. They also lack interactive exercises, which makes student lose their concentration.

On the contrary, practical learning is what students love as it gives them a chance to explore the concepts learned. The interactive exercises, practical experiments, and engaging sessions are essential features of practical education. They ensure full involvement from students, making them learn and understand more.

Isn’t learning the fundamental purpose of education? Indeed, and what better way to enhance learning than practical education. Beyond this, it strengthens understanding and comprehension of a subject. There is no denying that theoretical learning utilizes textbooks and research papers. In comparison, experiential learning allows students to learn things firsthand.

3.   Powerful memory tool

One of the added benefits of practical learning is its powerful memory retaining capabilities. It’s said and proven that students remember concepts better when they learn through experience. Hence, with good practice and experiments comes great experience and memory.

Let’s take an example of driving a car; when you learn to drive and practice it well, you learn to drive better. Moreover, students reading theoretical courses or lessons tend to remember information for a shorter period. They try hard to memorize long paragraphs, theorems, and formulas but forget them during exams.

In contrast, when students learn through experiments, field trips, assignments, or even projects, they retain information for a longer duration . The reason is that in theoretical learning, our mind focuses on words, whereas, in experiential learning, our focus is on remembering actions, scenarios, and outcomes.

Final Thoughts

For these convincing reasons, practical learning is gaining popularity and transforming the education landscape. Education is significant to gaining new knowledge, and it’s the key to developing a generation of capable and intellectual professionals. Hence, education is a perfect blend of theory-based concepts and practical learning. Nonetheless, knowledge has no value until put into practice.

This post contains affiliate links and I may receive a commission, at no additional cost to you, should you purchase through one of my links. Please see my disclosure for more information.

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Education: The Key to Success

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