Edtech, or education technology, is the practice of introducing information and communication technology tools into the classroom to create more engaging, inclusive and individualized learning experiences.
Today’s classrooms have moved beyond the clunky desktop computers that were once the norm and are now tech-infused with tablets, interactive online courses and even robots that can take notes and record lectures for absent students.
Quality Education is desirable. Employers want employees who have received it. Parents want their children to get it. And even the UN wants to make it as accessible and equitable as possible. But what really constitutes quality education?
In this article, you will learn what quality education is and how you can find schools that provide it. Citing studies, research papers, and statistics, this is the most comprehensive online resource on Quality Education.
Aside from mentioning the key signs of quality education-providing institutions, it also explains the importance of good education to an individual, his family and society, and the world at large.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child recognizes education as a legal right of every child. Yet education remains a privilege to many. The GEM Report and the UIS show that 244 million children and youth between the ages of 6 and 18 worldwide were still missing out on school in 2021. Of that total, more than 118 million were girls.
Among those fortunate to have access to education, on the other hand, more than 617 million children and adolescents do not have minimum proficiency levels in reading and mathematics.
1. What is education?
Education is the process where an individual acquires or imparts basic knowledge to another. It is also where a person:
develops skills essential to daily living,
learns social norms,
develops judgment and reasoning, and
learns how to discern right from wrong.
The ultimate goal of education is to help an individual navigate life and contribute to society once they become older.
There are various types of education but typically, traditional schooling dictates the way one’s education success is measured. People who attended school and attained a higher level of education are considered more employable and likely to earn more.
In developing, low-income countries, for example, there is a projected 10 per cent increase in a person’s future income for every additional year of education.
Education helps eradicate poverty and hunger, giving people the chance at better lives. This is one of the biggest reasons why parents strive to make their kids attend school as long as possible. It is also why nations work toward promoting easier access to education for both children and adults.
2. Why is education important?
There are plenty of reasons why education is important. Generally speaking, they all tie closely to a person’s goals in life and to their future well-being. Below are some of the other most common reasons education is so important:
Education helps a person hone their communication skills by learning how to read, write, speak and listen.
Education develops critical thinking. This is vital in teaching a person how to use logic when making decisions and interacting with people (e.g., boosting creativity, enhancing time management).
Education helps an individual meet basic job qualifications and makes them more likely to secure better jobs.
Education promotes gender equality and helps empower girls and women. A World Bank report found that an extra year of schooling for girls reduces teen pregnancy rates in Peru by almost seven per cent and gave women more control over how many children they have.
Education reduces child mortality. According to UNESCO, a child born to a mother who has a high school diploma is 31 per cent more likely to survive past the age of five.
3. What are the different types of education?
Education is typically divided into three categories: formal education, informal education, and non-formal education.
Formal education
Formal education is the type that is typically conducted in a classroom setting in an academic institution. This is where students are taught basic skills such as reading and writing, as well as more advanced academic lessons.
Also known as ‘formal learning’, it usually begins in elementary school and culminates in post-secondary education. It is provided by qualified teachers or professors and follows a curriculum.
Informal education
Informal education, on the other hand, is the type that is done outside the premises of an academic institution. Often, this is when a person learns skills or acquires knowledge from home, when visiting libraries, or browsing educational websites through a device. Learning from the elders in one’s community can also be an important form of informal education.
Such education is often not planned or deliberate, nor does it follow a regimented timetable or a specific curriculum. It is spontaneous and may also be described as a natural form of education.
Non-formal education
Non-formal education has qualities similar to both formal and informal education. It follows a timetable and is systemically implemented but not necessarily conducted within a school system. It is flexible in terms of time and curriculum and normally does not have an age limit.
The most common examples of non-formal education include community-based courses, vocational training, or short programs that are not facilitated by professional instructors.
4. What are the benefits of education?
If all students in low-income countries acquired basic reading skills before leaving school, entire societies could change dramatically. According to UNESCO, nearly 420 million people could escape poverty if all adults had just two more years of schooling. If all adults completed secondary education, 420 million could be lifted out of poverty. But education isn’t just about living above the poverty line. It’s about quality of life, choices at work, and many other benefits, as listed below.
Developing problem-solving skills
The schooling system teaches a person how to make their own decisions by developing critical and logical thinking skills. This prepares children for adulthood when both big and small decisions become a constant part of their daily lives.
For example, coming up with solutions to challenges in the community or planning how to provide for a family.
Self-reliance and empowerment
Knowing how to read, write, and do arithmetic is empowering. When a person can read, they can access endless learning and information. When they can calculate expenses and make a budget, they can start a small business. Paired with the ability to form opinions, literacy makes a person more self-reliant, and gives them confidence.
Promoting equality among individuals
In an ideal world, there is no room for discrimination due to race, gender, religion, social class, or level of literacy. This is where the value of education comes to play. Through education, one can develop strong, well-considered opinions – and learn to respect the views of others. Many experts agree that education is a significant contributor to peace in societies.
Stability and financial security
A person’s income is often linked to his or her educational attainment. Around the world, there are more employment opportunities for those who complete high school, earn a degree, diploma or certificate, or go on to post-graduate studies. These can also mean higher salaries.
Economic growth (as a nation)
An educated population is important in building a nation’s economy. According to studies, countries with the highest literacy rates are more likely to make progress in human and economic development. National economic growth begins with individual economic growth, which is often linked back to education.
In Canada, 70 per cent of jobs have a college-level reading skill requirement. A separate report also found that individuals with lower literacy skills are more likely to be unemployed.
Giving back to the community
Once children are educated, they have more ways to make a difference in their communities. Many of the children we serve at World Vision have dreams of making a difference as teachers, doctors, or as part of the government.
5. What does World Vision do to make education more accessible for girls and boys?
One of World Vision’s objectives is to make education accessible for girls and boys around the world. We see it as an effective tool to promote sustainable growth for children, their families, and the communities that we support.
In 2022, donors sponsored 317,942 children across 36 countries through World Vision Canada alone. Many of these children are now benefitting from formal education. At least 111,609 children attend after-school literacy activities, while 177,746 people participated in training aimed at ending violence against children.
World Vision has several programs which make the education of children and youth a priority. These include Child Sponsorship, the Raw Hope initiative, and the World Vision Gift Catalogue. Through these projects, anyone interested in helping fund the education of vulnerable children can participate.
6. How can I contribute toward making education accessible?
Children in Canada have access to free education all the way through high school – but it’s not true everywhere. Below are some of the ways you can help make education accessible for girls and boys around the world.
Child Sponsorship
World Vision is known for its Child Sponsorship program. It is an initiative where we pool together funds from donors, partners, and the Canadian government to provide access to necessities such as nutritious food, clean water, health care and education among others. The program benefits children across 44 countries, emphasizing access to education.
Raw Hope
Raw Hope is another program where we strive to make learning possible, even in the world’s most dangerous places. We do more than provide access to life-saving essentials. Raw Hope also includes the creation of safe spaces where girls and boys can play and continue their learning, even when life is in chaos.
Gift Catalogue
World Vision’s online Gift Catalogue invites donors to choose from many kinds of life-changing gifts – including several focusing on education. You can help by donating textbooks for children, distributing school essentials, donating tech for a community, and helping send girls to school.
Volunteer.
While monetary donations are a great way to help, it is not the only option. You can also try volunteering your time by joining groups in your city or neighbourhood. Look for associations accepting volunteer teachers and share your knowledge with children of all ages. Volunteer Canada has a directory of volunteer centres all over the country. You can also get in touch with World Vision Canada to learn about volunteering with us. Children in Canada have access to free education all the way through high school – but it’s not true everywhere. Below are some of the ways you can help make education accessible for girls and boys around the world.
7. Quick facts about education in Canada and the world
Different countries and regions have different approaches to education, for children and adults. A nation’s wealth – and stability – often affect what they are able to offer. Here are some facts about education in Canada and the rest of the world:
Education in Canada is generally overseen and funded by governments (provincial, territorial, and federal).
Kindergarten in Canada is mandatory in most provinces and optional in a few. Starting in Grade 1, education is mandatory until a child is at least 16. The only exceptions are when families adhere to certain requirements for home schooling.
Canada offers a Kindergarten to Grade 12 educational system, along with some other countries, such as the United States, Australia, Germany, Japan, Singapore, and the Philippines.
Canada once had a highly controversial residential school system. More than 150,000 First Nations, Métis and Inuit children were forced to attend church-run, government-funded schools between the 1870s and 1997.
In 2016, some 750 million adults in the world still lacked basic reading and writing skills. Two-thirds of them were women.
Central Asia, Europe, and North America have the highest literacy rates for youth aged 15-24 at nearly 100 per cent. The sub-Saharan region of Africa has the lowest, at 67 per cent. The criteria for assessing literacy vary between countries.
There are several classifications of education. One classification depends on the institutional framework, distinguishing between formal, non-formal, and informal education. Another classification involves different levels of education based on factors such as the student's age and the complexity of the content. Further categories focus on the topic, teaching method, medium used, and funding.
Formal, non-formal, and informal
Photo of a man tutoring two children
Photo of father and daughter cooking
Tutoring exemplifies non-formal education, whereas learning how to cook from one's parents falls under informal education.
The most common division is between formal, non-formal, and informal education.Formal education occurs within a structured institutional framework, typically with a chronological and hierarchical order. The modern schooling system organizes classes based on the student's age and progress, ranging from primary school to university. Formal education is usually overseen and regulated by the government and often mandated up to a certain age.
Non-formal and informal education occur outside the formal schooling system, with non-formal education serving as a middle ground. Like formal education, non-formal education is organized, systematic, and pursued with a clear purpose, as seen in activities such as tutoring, fitness classes, and participation in the scouting movement.Informal education, on the other hand, occurs in an unsystematic manner through daily experiences and exposure to the environment. Unlike formal and non-formal education, there is typically no designated authority figure responsible for teaching.Informal education unfolds in various settings and situations throughout one's life, often spontaneously, such as children learning their first language from their parents or individuals mastering cooking skills by preparing a dish together.
Some theorists differentiate between the three types based on the learning environment: formal education occurs within schools, non-formal education takes place in settings not regularly frequented, such as museums, and informal education unfolds in the context of everyday routines.Additionally, there are disparities in the source of motivation. Formal education tends to be propelled by extrinsic motivation, driven by external rewards. Conversely, in non-formal and informal education, intrinsic motivation, stemming from the enjoyment of the learning process, typically prevails.While the differentiation among the three types is generally clear, certain forms of education may not neatly fit into a single category.
In primitive cultures, education predominantly occurred informally, with little distinction between educational activities and other daily endeavors. Instead, the entire environment served as a classroom, and adults commonly assumed the role of educators. However, informal education often proves insufficient for imparting large quantities of knowledge. To address this limitation, formal educational settings and trained instructors are typically necessary. This necessity contributed to the increasing significance of formal education throughout history. Over time, formal education led to a shift towards more abstract learning experiences and topics, distancing itself from daily life. There was a greater emphasis on understanding general principles and concepts rather than simply observing and imitating specific behaviors.
Levels
Photo of a kindergarten lesson in Japan
Children in a Japanese kindergarten
Types of education are often categorized into different levels or stages. One influential framework is the International Standard Classification of Education, maintained by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This classification encompasses both formal and non-formal education and distinguishes levels based on factors such as the student's age, the duration of learning, and the complexity of the content covered. Additional criteria include entry requirements, teacher qualifications, and the intended outcome of successful completion. The levels are grouped into early childhood education (level 0), primary education (level 1), secondary education (levels 2–3), post-secondary non-tertiary education (level 4), and tertiary education (levels 5–8).
Early childhood education, also referred to as preschool education or nursery education, encompasses the period from birth until the commencement of primary school. It is designed to facilitate holistic child development, addressing physical, mental, and social aspects. Early childhood education is pivotal in fostering socialization and personality development, while also imparting fundamental skills in communication, learning, and problem-solving. Its overarching goal is to prepare children for the transition to primary education.While preschool education is typically optional, in certain countries such as Brazil, it is mandatory starting from the age of four.
Photo of early childhood education in Ethiopia
Primary school classroom in Ethiopia
Primary (or elementary) education usually begins between the ages of five and seven and spans four to seven years. It has no additional entry requirements and aims to impart fundamental skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. Additionally, it provides essential knowledge in subjects such as history, geography, the sciences, music, and art. Another objective is to facilitate personal developmentPresently, primary education is compulsory in nearly all nations, with over 90% of primary-school-age children worldwide attending such schools.
Secondary education succeeds primary education and typically spans the ages of 12 to 18 years. It is normally divided into lower secondary education (such as middle school or junior high school) and upper secondary education (like high school, senior high school, or college, depending on the country). Lower secondary education usually requires the completion of primary school as its entry prerequisite. It aims to expand and deepen learning outcomes, with a greater focus on subject-specific curricula, and teachers often specialize in one or a few specific subjects. One of its goals is to acquaint students with fundamental theoretical concepts across various subjects, laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning. In certain instances, it may also incorporate rudimentary forms of vocational training.Lower secondary education is compulsory in numerous countries across Central and East Asia, Europe, and the Americas. In some nations, it represents the final phase of compulsory education. However, mandatory lower secondary education is less common in Arab states, sub-Saharan Africa, and South and West Asia.
A high school senior (twelfth grade) classroom in the United States
Upper secondary education typically commences around the age of 15, aiming to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for employment or tertiary education. Completion of lower secondary education is normally a prerequisite. The curriculum encompasses a broader range of subjects, often affording students the opportunity to select from various options. Attainment of a formal qualification, such as a high school diploma, is frequently linked to successful completion of upper secondary education. Education beyond the secondary level may fall under the category of post-secondary non-tertiary education, which is akin to secondary education in complexity but places greater emphasis on vocational training to ready students for the workforce.
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Educational technology (commonly abbreviated as edutech, or edtech) is the combined use of computer hardware, software, and educational theory and practice to facilitate learning and teaching.When referred to with its abbreviation, "EdTech", it often refers to the industry of companies that create educational technology. In EdTech Inc.: Selling, Automating and Globalizing Higher Education in the Digital Age, Tanner Mirrlees and Shahid Alvi (2019) argue "EdTech is no exception to industry ownership and market rules" and "define the EdTech industries as all the privately owned companies currently involved in the financing, production and distribution of commercial hardware, software, cultural goods, services and platforms for the educational market with the goal of turning a profit. Many of these companies are US-based and rapidly expanding into educational markets across North America, and increasingly growing all over the world."
In addition to the practical educational experience, educational technology is based on theoretical knowledge from various disciplines such as communication, education, psychology, sociology, artificial intelligence, and computer science.It encompasses several domains including learning theory, computer-based training, online learning, and m-learning where mobile technologies are used.
Education is capable of changing or transforming individuals and societies. That’s why its importance cannot be overlooked. It makes the basis of self-development, self-belief, and economic prosperity that brings a brighter and fairer future. Indeed, as Malcolm X postulated, “education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today”.In the modern world, education does not only influence individuals but the economy, social networks, and health rates of the whole world. The present article describes the determinants and influences of education on various children development areas. UNESCO, UNICEF, and the World Bank reports or observations point out its immense contribution to enhancing literacy and well-being as a whole.
Education is crucial and it can be structured or unstructured, intentional or accidental. To understand education in a better way we need to understand its types. Education can be classified into three main types such as:Formal EducationInformal EducationNon-Formal EducationEach type of education has unique features, methods, and results. However, they all help an individual’s overall learning journey throughout life.Further we will know more about each type one by one to understand which is better for your kid. You can also explore various educational activities for kids.
Formal Education
Formal education is a type in which students get structured and systematic forms of learning. It takes place in schools, colleges, and universities. In this type, schools follow a particular curriculum which is governed by strict rules and regulations. In the end students get certifications or degrees.Characteristics of Formal Education
Characteristics of Formal Education
1. Structured CurriculumFormal education takes place in a school or dedicated learning place which provides a structured curriculum. If you are looking for an ideal education, look at the best way to choose the right curriculum for your child .It represents what students will learn and how it will be taught in each class. 2. Classroom LearningAs we know, formal education primarily takes place in a classroom setting which makes it unique then other types of education. Students often connect with teachers and administration who make the learning process easy and engaging. 3. Assessment and EvaluationAssessment and evaluation are crucial for formal education. This includes exams, assignments, and grades to evaluate progress etc.4. CertificationAfter completion, students receive diplomas, degrees, or other credentials upon completion.5. Certified TeachersFormal education is popular for providing systematic education. With the help of certified teachers who have the qualifications in their respective fields students can achieve academic success.
Informal Education
Informal education means any kind of learning which happens outside of formal educational settings. This can be on-the-job training, self-education, learning from daily experiences etc. Here the learner doesn’t have a structured, curriculum-based environment. Informal education is a lifelong learning process in which individuals acquire knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values from various sources and situations.Characteristics of Informal Education
Characteristics of Informal Education
1. Spontaneous and UnplannedInformal learning occurs without any structured curriculum or schedule. This kind of learning happens through life experiences. 2. Lifelong LearningInformal education is a lifelong learning process which can happen at any age and in various contexts. 3. Self-DirectedThis type of person takes initiative to learn and explore various topics based on their interest. 4. Occurs in daily lifeInformal education occurs in kids’ daily life works. Takes place in various settings such as at home, at work, or in the community!
Non-Formal Education
Non-formal education refers to various structured educational programs outside the traditional formal system. It is designed to provide learning opportunities for adults and youth. It consists of adult digital literacy programs, skill-building courses, and community-based learning initiatives. These programs often prioritize practical skills, real-life applications, and active participation. It has a flexible and accessible format which makes it an ideal choice.
Characteristics of Non-Formal Education
1. Intentional and PlannedSame as formal education, non-formal education is also intentional or planned learning. It is a deliberate, organized and purposeful attempt to facilitate learning. 2. Practical and RelevantNon-formal learning includes practical skills and real-world applications for gaining knowledge. This makes learning more relevant to the learner’s lives. 3. Active ParticipationNon-formal education helps kids in active participation and engagement in the learning process .This means kids are motivated to engage, collaborate, and contribute their ideas during meetings or group discussions. 4. May offer certificationSometimes students get participation certificates or skills in non-formal education but mostly it
Educational technology (commonly abbreviated as edutech, or edtech) is the combined use of computer hardware, software, and educational theory and practice to facilitate learning and teaching.When referred to with its abbreviation, "EdTech", it often refers to the industry of companies that create educational technology.In EdTech Inc.: Selling, Automating and Globalizing Higher Education in the Digital Age, Tanner Mirrlees and Shahid Alvi (2019) argue "EdTech is no exception to industry ownership and market rules" and "define the EdTech industries as all the privately owned companies currently involved in the financing, production and distribution of commercial hardware, software, cultural goods, services and platforms for the educational market with the goal of turning a profit. Many of these companies are US-based and rapidly expanding into educational markets across North America, and increasingly growing all over the world."
A school is the educational institution (and, in the case of in-person learning, the building) designed to provide learning environments for the teaching of students, usually under the direction of teachers. Most countries have systems of formal education, which is sometimes compulsory.In these systems, students progress through a series of schools that can be built and operated by both government and private organization. The names for these schools vary by country (discussed in the Regional terms section below) but generally include primary school for young children and secondary school for teenagers who have completed primary education. An institution where higher education is taught is commonly called a university college or university.
In addition to these core schools, students in a given country may also attend schools before and after primary (elementary in the U.S.) and secondary (middle school in the U.S.) education.Kindergarten or preschool provide some schooling to very young children (typically ages 3–5). University, vocational school, college, or seminary may be available after secondary school. A school may be dedicated to one particular field, such as a school of economics or dance. Alternative schools may provide nontraditional curriculum and methods.
Education in India is primarily managed by the state-run public education system, which falls under the command of the government at three levels: central, state and local.Under various articles of the Indian Constitution and the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, free and compulsory education is provided as a fundamental right to children aged 6 to 14. The approximate ratio of the total number of public schools to private schools in India is 10:3.
Education in India covers different levels and types of learning, such as early childhood education, primary education, secondary education, higher education, and vocational education. It varies significantly according to different factors, such as location (urban or rural), gender, caste, religion, language, and disability.
Education in India faces several challenges, including improving access, quality, and learning outcomes, reducing dropout rates, and enhancing employability. It is shaped by national and state-level policies and programmes such as the National Education Policy 2020, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan, Midday Meal Scheme, and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao. Various national and international stakeholders, including UNICEF, UNESCO, the World Bank, civil society organisations, academic institutions, and the private sector, contribute to the development of the education system.
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American Marathi Mission, Scottish presbyterian missionary John Wilson, Indian nationalists such as Vasudev Balwant Phadke and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, social reformers such as Jyotirao Phule, Dhondo Keshav Karve and Bhaurao Patil all played a leading role in the setting up of modern schools and colleges during the British colonial era.The forerunner of Deccan College Post-Graduate and Research Institute was established in 1821. The Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Women's University, the oldest women's liberal arts college in south Asia, started its journey in 1916. College of Engineering Pune, established in 1854, is the third oldest college in Asia.Government Polytechnic Nagpur, established in 1914, is one of the oldest polytechnics in India.
Educational technology (commonly abbreviated as edutech, or edtech) is the combined use of computer hardware, software, and educational theory and practice to facilitate learning and teaching.When referred to with its abbreviation, "EdTech", it often refers to the industry of companies that create educational technology.In EdTech Inc.: Selling, Automating and Globalizing Higher Education in the Digital Age, Tanner Mirrlees and Shahid Alvi (2019) argue "EdTech is no exception to industry ownership and market rules" and "define the EdTech industries as all the privately owned companies currently involved in the financing, production and distribution of commercial hardware, software, cultural goods, services and platforms for the educational market with the goal of turning a profit. Many of these companies are US-based and rapidly expanding into educational markets across North America, and increasingly growing all over the world."
In addition to the practical educational experience, educational technology is based on theoretical knowledge from various disciplines such as communication, education, psychology, sociology, artificial intelligence, and computer science. It encompasses several domains including learning theory, computer-based training, online learning, and m-learning where mobile technologies are used.
Educational technology (often abbreviated as edtech) refers to the use of computer hardware, software, and educational theories and practice...
