FOUNDATION OF EDUCATION

Foundation of Education

Definition of Education Functions and Objectives of Education

Global National Local

Arranged By: Nurun Najiah 2120300039

Khoirunnisa Harahap 2120300020
Anngi Zahra Rani Lubis 2120300048

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 FOUNDATION OF EDUCATION

1. Introduction

Education plays a fundamental role in shaping individuals and

communities at multiple levels. It goes beyond the simple transmission of
knowledge, encompassing intellectual, emotional, moral, and social
development. This material explores the foundational concepts of education,
its definitions according to renowned experts, and its global, national, and
local functions and objectives. By understanding these aspects, learners can
appreciate the transformative power of education in fostering personal growth,
societal well-being, and global progress.

1.1 Learning objectives

The Learning objectives of this material are:

1) Understand the basic concepts of education.
2) Explain the importance of education in individual and societal life.

2. Topics
2.1 Definition of Education

Ki Hajar Dewantara defines education as guidance in the life of

growing children. That is, education is an effort to guide the natural strengths
of children so that they can achieve the highest safety and happiness, both as
humans and as members of society. Education, therefore, is essential in
shaping children to become well-rounded individuals who can positively
contribute to their communities.1
According to John Dewey, education is the process of forming basic
skills, both related to human thinking (intellectual) and emotional power,
which takes place through social processes. 2 Meanwhile, Paulo Freire views
education as a tool of liberation, emphasizing that education is not only the
transfer of knowledge but also an effort to raise critical consciousness so that
people can challenge and change conditions of injustice. Through these

1
Ki Hajar Dewantara. Pendidikan. In Pendidikan dan Kebudayaan. Yogyakarta: Taman
Siswa, 1935.
2
John Dewey. Democracy and Education: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Education.
New York: Macmillan, 1916.

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 perspectives, education is seen as a powerful means to develop intellectual
and emotional capabilities and promote social transformation.3
Education, according to Carter V. Good, is the process of developing
individual skills in the form of attitudes and behavior that align with the
society in which a person lives.4 Emile Durkheim defines it as actions taken
by the adult generation to prepare the younger generation for social life and
equip them for future social roles. These definitions highlight the social
function of education as a bridge between individual growth and societal
needs.5
Similarly, Plato states that education helps individuals achieve justice
within themselves, which involves wisdom and knowledge, while preparing
them to fulfill their roles in society. Education, therefore, acts as a means of
cultivating inner virtues while simultaneously equipping individuals for their
external responsibilities.6
Lastly, Anies Baswedan describes education as a conscious and
planned effort to create a conducive learning environment and process,
enabling students to develop their potential in terms of spirituality,
intelligence, character, and skills needed for personal and societal growth.
This comprehensive approach ensures that education fosters not only
intellectual excellence but also moral and social development, which are
crucial for the overall progress of society.7
From the above definitions, it can be concluded that education is not
merely the acquisition of knowledge but also includes character building,
critical awareness, and social development. As a holistic process, education
shapes individuals intellectually, emotionally, and morally, empowering them
to contribute meaningfully to their communities.

2.2 Functions and Objectives of Education

2.2.1 Global Functions of Education

Education has a very significant role on a global scale, as it is the
main foundation for individual progress and community development

3
Paulo Freire. Pedagogy of the Oppressed. Translated by Myra Bergman Ramos. New York:
Herder and Herder, 1970. Originally published in 1968.
4
Carter V. Good. Dictionary of Education. 3rd ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1973.
5
Emile Durkheim. Education and Sociology. Translated by Sherwood D. Fox. New York:
The Free Press, 1956. Originally published in French as Éducation et sociologie, 1922.
6
Plato. The Republic. Translated by Benjamin Jowett. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1888.
Originally written circa 380 BCE.
7
Anies Baswedan. Pendidikan Karakter: Membangun Peradaban Bangsa. Jakarta: PT
Kompas Media Nusantara, 2009.

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 around the world. In this era of globalization, education not only serves as
a means to transfer knowledge, but also becomes an important instrument
to achieve greater goals such as poverty alleviation, gender equality,
peace, and sustainable development. Global functions and objectives of
education are:
1) Promote Global Citizenship
Education fosters an understanding of global interdependence,
encouraging individuals to become responsible global citizens who
appreciate diversity and promote peace.
2) Sustainable Development
Education helps individuals understand global issues such as
climate change, inequality, and poverty, empowering them to
contribute to sustainable development goals (SDGs) set by the United
Nations.
3) Cultural Exchange and Diplomacy
Education facilitates cultural understanding and global
diplomacy by enabling the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and
experiences across countries.
4) Economic Competitiveness
Education at a global level aims to prepare individuals to
compete in a globalized economy by equipping them with skills
relevant to international labor markets, such as technological literacy
and foreign language proficiency.
5) Technological Advancement
Education helps bridge the digital divide and accelerates
technological progress by promoting digital literacy and fostering
innovation in science, engineering, and technology. 8

2.2.2 Global Objectives of Education

In the context of an increasingly connected and complex world,
education has global goals that transcend local and national
boundaries. These goals focus not only on the formation of skilled and
knowledgeable individuals, but also on achieving social, economic and
environmental well-being around the world. Global education aims to
prepare future generations to meet global challenges, contribute to
sustainable development and adopt universal values such as justice,
equality and tolerance.
1) Achieving Universal Education
One of the key global objectives is ensuring that all children,
regardless of background, have access to quality education, as outlined

8
Antonio F. de. Lima Jr, "The role of international educational exchanges in public
diplomacy." Place Branding and Public Diplomacy 3.3 (2007): 234-251.

3
 in initiatives like the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 4
(SDG 4).
2) Peace and Conflict Resolution
Education is used as a tool to prevent conflict by promoting
tolerance, understanding, and peaceful resolution of disputes.
3) Combatting Poverty and Inequality
Globally, education is seen as a means to reduce poverty and
inequality by providing equal opportunities for people to improve their
socioeconomic status.
4) Developing a Global Workforce
Education aims to create a workforce that can adapt to the
demands of a globalized, rapidly evolving economy by developing
skills like problem-solving, creativity, and cross-cultural
communication.9

2.2.3 National Functions of education

Education plays a very important role in the national context,
serving as a key pillar in the development of the country and the well-
being of society. In each country, education is designed to meet the
specific needs and challenges faced by local communities, as well as
to support broader national development goals. National functions of
education are:
1) National Unity and Cohesion
Education in Indonesia serves to strengthen national unity by
promoting a shared identity, national values (such as Pancasila), and
loyalty to the country.
2) Cultural Preservation
Indonesia’s diverse culture requires education to function as a
medium for preserving and promoting local languages, customs, and
traditions.
3) Economic Development
Education is integral to Indonesia’s economic strategy,
contributing to the development of human capital that drives economic
progress and reduces poverty.
4) Political Socialization
Education teaches civic responsibilities, democratic
participation, and respect for national laws and governance, essential
for maintaining a stable and democratic nation.10
9
Surattana Adipat and Rattanawadee Chotikapanich. "Sustainable development goal 4: An
education goal to achieve equitable quality education." Academic Journal of Interdisciplinary
Studies 11.6,174-183 (2022).
10
P. W. J. Nababan. "Language in education: The case of Indonesia." International review of
education 37 (1991): 115-131.

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 2.2.4 National Objectives of Education
Every country has education goals that are tailored to its needs,
culture and national development priorities. These goals are designed
to support economic growth, strengthen social values and improve
people's well-being and quality of life.
1) Fostering National Identity (Pancasila-based Education)
One of the core objectives of Indonesian education is to foster
the values of Pancasila, which emphasizes belief in God,
humanitarianism, unity, democracy, and social justice.
2) Quality and Inclusive Education
The Indonesian government prioritizes improving the quality
of education and ensuring that it is accessible to all citizens, including
those in rural and disadvantaged areas.
3) Preparing for Global Competitiveness
Indonesia aims to produce graduates capable of competing on
the global stage, with a focus on digital literacy, innovation, and
mastery of foreign languages, particularly English.
4) Character Building
Education in Indonesia also focuses on character development,
aiming to instill moral values such as discipline, integrity, and respect
for diversity.
5) Economic and Social Mobility
By improving access to education, the objective is to help
individuals rise out of poverty and contribute more effectively to the
nation's economy.11

2.2.5 Local Functions of Education

Education plays an important role in every community, serving
as the basis for individual development and the advancement of local
communities. While education has broad global goals and functions,
its implementation is often influenced by local needs, values and
priorities. The functions of education at the local level vary widely and
depend on the specific social, cultural and economic context of each
region.
1) Preservation of Local Knowledge and Traditions
In local communities, education often focuses on preserving
and passing down traditional knowledge, such as agricultural
practices, local arts, and oral histories.
2) Community Development
11
Dzulkifli Isadaud, M. Dzikrul Fikri, and Muhammad Imam Bukhari. "The urgency of
English in the curriculum in Indonesia to prepare human resources for global
competitiveness." DIAJAR: Jurnal Pendidikan Dan Pembelajaran 1.1 (2022): 51-58.

5
 Education at the local level plays a role in addressing specific
community needs, such as improving literacy, health, and
employment opportunities.
3) Social Integration
Local education systems help integrate diverse groups within
communities, fostering social harmony and cooperation among
ethnic, religious, or cultural groups.
4) Responding to Local Economic Needs
Education is tailored to meet the economic needs of local
communities, often focusing on skills that are directly relevant to
the local job market, such as farming, fishing, or small business
management.12

2.2.6 Local Objectives of Education

Education not only has a huge impact at the global level, but
also plays a very important role in the local context. Each community
or region has specific needs and challenges that affect their
educational goals. Local objectives of education are:
1) Empowering Local Communities
The objective of education at the local level is to empower
individuals and communities to take control of their development,
improving their quality of life and self-sufficiency.
2) Supporting Indigenous and Traditional Practices
Many local education programs aim to protect and promote
indigenous knowledge, languages, and cultural practices, ensuring
their survival for future generations.
3) Increasing Local Employment
Local education often aims to develop the skills needed for
employment within the community, such as vocational training for
agriculture, handicrafts, or tourism.
4) Improving Health and Well-being
Education at the local level often focuses on improving health
outcomes through education on hygiene, nutrition, and preventive
healthcare practices.
5) Addressing Local Challenges
Education in local areas often aims to solve specific
challenges, such as environmental degradation, water scarcity, or
natural disaster preparedness.13

12
Michael Harris Bond. "Unity in diversity: Orientations and strategies for building a
harmonious, multicultural society." Trames 2 (1998): 234-263.
13
Henrietta Marie AM. "Emerging trends in the generation, transmission and protection of
Traditional Knowledge." Indigenous Policy Journal 30.1 (2019): 1-15.

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3. Summary
Education encompasses a broad and diverse range of meanings, involving
the intellectual, emotional, social, and moral development of individuals.
According to experts, education is not merely about transferring knowledge but
also about fostering critical awareness, building social skills, and preparing
individuals to play active roles in society. By addressing these various
dimensions, education becomes a holistic process that shapes well-rounded
individuals.
Globally, education serves to promote global citizenship, sustainable
development, and competitiveness in the era of globalization. It prepares
individuals to adapt to global challenges and contributes to solving issues that
require international cooperation. As a result, education plays a vital role in
fostering global understanding and progress.
Nationally, education aims to strengthen unity, preserve cultural heritage,
promote economic growth, and shape a strong national identity. It equips citizens
with the skills and values necessary for building a resilient and cohesive nation.
Through education, countries can ensure their cultural and economic
sustainability for future generations.
Locally, education empowers communities, preserves traditional
knowledge, and addresses specific social and economic challenges. It enhances
the quality of life by equipping individuals with practical skills and fostering
social cohesion. Thus, education serves as a foundation for local development
and cultural preservation.
In conclusion, education is crucial in forming individuals who are
intellectually, emotionally, and socially balanced. It equips people with the
knowledge and skills needed to navigate personal and societal challenges
effectively. At the same time, education supports global progress, fosters national
development, and addresses local needs, making it an essential pillar for both
individual growth and the advancement of communities at every level.

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 4. References
Adipat, S., & Chotikapanich, R. (2022). Sustainable development goal 4: An
education goal to achieve equitable quality education. Academic Journal of
Interdisciplinary Studies, 11(6,174-183).
AM, H. M. (2019). Emerging trends in the generation, transmission and
protection of Traditional Knowledge. Indigenous Policy Journal, 30(1), 1-15.
Askerov, A., & Askerov, A. (2010). Peace education and conflict resolution:
A critical review. Innovative Issues and Approaches in Social Sciences, 3(1), 5-35.
Bond, M. H. (1998). Unity in diversity: Orientations and strategies for
building a harmonious, multicultural society. Trames, 2, 234-263.
Boven, K., & Morohashi, J. (2002). Best practices using indigenous
knowledge (pp. 12-13). The Hague: Nuffic.
Crouch, L., Rolleston, C., & Gustafsson, M. (2021). Eliminating global
learning poverty: The importance of equalities and equity. International Journal of
Educational Development, 82, 102250.
Dewi, M. P., Rahmatunnisa, M., Sumaryana, A., & Kristiadi, J. B. (2018).
Ensuring service quality in education for Indonesia’s sustainable education. Journal
of Social Studies Education Research, 9(4), 65-81.
Garcia, J., da Silva, S. A., Carvalho, A. S., & de Andrade Guerra, J. B. S. O.
(2017). Education for sustainable development and its role in the promotion of the
sustainable development goals. Curricula for sustainability in higher education, 1-18.
Hong, P. Y. P., Sheriff, V. A., & Naeger, S. R. (2009). A bottom-up definition
of self-sufficiency: Voices from low-income jobseekers. Qualitative Social
Work, 8(3), 357-376.
Isadaud, D., Fikri, M. D., & Bukhari, M. I. (2022). The urgency of English in
the curriculum in Indonesia to prepare human resources for global
competitiveness. DIAJAR: Jurnal Pendidikan Dan Pembelajaran, 1(1), 51-58.
Lima Jr, A. F. D. (2007). The role of international educational exchanges in
public diplomacy. Place Branding and Public Diplomacy, 3(3), 234-251.

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 Nababan, P. W. J. (1991). Language in education: The case of
Indonesia. International review of education, 37, 115-131.
Neumeyer, X., Santos, S. C., & Morris, M. H. (2020). Overcoming barriers to
technology adoption when fostering entrepreneurship among the poor: The role of
technology and digital literacy. IEEE Transactions on Engineering
Management, 68(6), 1605-1618.
Noddings, N. (Ed.). (2005). Educating citizens for global awareness.
Teachers College Press.
Sidi, B. A. (2019). Unity and diversity: National identity and multiculturalism
in Indonesia. University of Otago.
Subaidi, S. (2020). Strengthening character education in Indonesia:
Implementing values from moderate Islam and the Pancasila. Journal of Social
Studies Education Research, 11(2), 120-132.
Warschauer, M. (2000). The changing global economy and the future of
English teaching. TESOL quarterly, 34(3), 511-535.
Zimmerman, E. B., Woolf, S. H., & Haley, A. (2015). Understanding the
relationship between education and health: a review of the evidence and an
examination of community perspectives. Population health: behavioral and social
science insights. Rockville (MD): Agency for Health-care Research and
Quality, 22(1), 347-84.

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5. Quiz

5.1 Multiple Choice

1. Which definition of education best aligns with the idea of fostering

social transformation through critical awareness?
A. Education as the guidance of children’s natural strengths for
societal happiness (Ki Hajar Dewantara)
B. Education as forming basic intellectual and emotional skills
(John Dewey)
C. Education as actions for preparing younger generations for
social roles (Emile Durkheim)
D. Education as a tool to challenge and change conditions of
injustice (Paulo Freire)
E. Education as a process to cultivate justice and wisdom
within individuals (Plato)
2. Education serves as a foundation for individual and societal growth.
Which of the following best represents a holistic role of education
in modern society?

A. Preparing individuals solely for economic productivity

B. Promoting lifelong learning, empathy, and critical thinking
C. Limiting the scope of education to formal academic settings
D. Enforcing uniformity in cultural and societal values
E. Emphasizing theoretical knowledge over practical
application

3. Which of the following reflects a comprehensive aim of education

in the 21st century?

A. Equipping individuals only with technical skills

B. Transmitting cultural traditions without questioning their
relevance
C. Developing intellectual, emotional, and ethical capacities for
societal betterment
D. Focusing exclusively on preparing students for competitive
exams
E. Encouraging conformity to societal norms without fostering
innovation

4. Imagine designing an education system for a future globalized

world. What should be its core focus?

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 a. Preserving local traditions without integrating global
perspectives
b. Teaching technical skills at the expense of ethical and social
education
c. Combining global competencies, sustainability, and ethical
values
d. Relying solely on digital tools for learning and teaching
e. Emphasizing uniform curricula for all countries

5. Lifelong learning is a crucial concept in modern education. Which

practice best supports this idea?
a. Focusing on early education and neglecting adult education
opportunities
b. Offering continuous professional development, informal
learning, and access to knowledge resources
c. Restricting education to formal institutions like schools and
universities
d. Emphasizing standardized exams as the end goal of learning
e. Encouraging students to stop learning after completing their
degrees

6. Which statement best differentiates schooling from education?

a. Schooling includes life experiences, while education is

strictly academic.
b. Schooling focuses on formal instruction, while education
encompasses formal, informal, and non-formal learning.
c. Education is limited to practical skills, whereas schooling
promotes ethical values.
d. Schooling and education are interchangeable terms.
e. Schooling focuses solely on vocational skills, while
education fosters intellectual development.

7. Which function of education most effectively bridges global

challenges with individual development?

A. Promoting digital literacy and technological advancements

B. Preserving traditional knowledge and cultural practices
C. Encouraging innovation in science and engineering
D. Developing critical skills for conflict resolution and peace
E. Building skills for economic progress and global
competitiveness

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 8. How does character education in Indonesia integrate with national
identity?

A. By emphasizing technological innovation

B. By promoting Pancasila values such as democracy and social
justice
C. By encouraging universal education goals from the United
Nations
D. By focusing solely on moral values and discipline
E. By fostering critical awareness to address social injustices

9. What role does education play in addressing local economic

challenges?
A. Preparing individuals for international job markets
B. Empowering students with digital literacy
C. Equipping learners with skills tailored to the local job market
D. Promoting cultural exchange and diplomacy
E. Facilitating sustainable development through technological
innovation
10. How does education contribute to achieving global goals like
sustainable development and peace?
A. By fostering economic competitiveness on a global scale
B. By promoting universal access to education and tolerance
C. By preserving national cultural values and traditions
D. By focusing on local employment and vocational skills
E. By ensuring access to higher education worldwide

5.2 Essay

1. Education as defined by various scholars reflects diverse perspectives.

Compare and contrast the definitions provided by Paulo Freire and
Carter V. Good. How do their views align with the global functions of
education in addressing modern challenges such as inequality and
technological advancement?

2. Education is described as a bridge between individual growth and

societal needs. Explore how Emile Durkheim’s and Plato’s definitions
of education contribute to this understanding. How can these ideas be
applied in modern education systems to achieve harmony between
personal and societal goals?

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3. How would you integrate cultural diversity, technological
advancements, and environmental consciousness into the system to
prepare learners for future challenges?

4. Analyze the significance of Pancasila-based education in fostering

national identity and unity in Indonesia. How can this approach be
balanced with global educational goals to prepare citizens for global
competitiveness?

5. Critically evaluate the impact of education on sustainable development

goals (SDGs). Highlight the roles played by global citizenship, cultural
exchange, and local empowerment in achieving these objectives.

6. Discuss the multi-dimensional role of education in shaping individuals

and societies. How does the integration of global, national, and local
objectives strengthen education's transformative power? Provide
examples from the text to support your argument.

7. Analyze the role of education in promoting peace and conflict

resolution on both global and local levels. How can the principles of
tolerance, cultural exchange, and critical awareness be incorporated
into educational curricula to address these goals effectively?

8. Global citizenship and sustainable development are key objectives of

modern education. Discuss the challenges of integrating these
objectives into traditional educational frameworks without
compromising local values and identities. Provide examples from the
text.

9. The objectives of education at the national level often reflect a

country’s cultural and developmental priorities. Discuss how
Indonesia’s focus on Pancasila-based education and character building
can address both national unity and global adaptability.

10. Local education systems play a crucial role in preserving indigenous

knowledge while addressing immediate community needs. Analyze
how these functions can be balanced with the push for global
competitiveness and technological literacy. Use examples from the text
to support your argument.

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