Aims of Education
Education is necessary for the survival of the society. It is a purposeful activity. It must have
definite aims and objectives. The aims of education will vary from time to time and people to
people. Perfect happiness is the ultimate aim of education.
1. Knowledge Aim
Man becomes resourceful through knowledge. True knowledge develops the mind and gives
strength to act. Knowledge acquisition is the aim of education. Knowledge is essential to equip
every individual to play the role as a useful member of society.
2. Character Aim
Character formation has been the most important aim of education. Without the development of
character, no man can become an educated one. Gandhiji tried to develop courage, strength,
virtue and ability to forget—these are good elements of character. Character formation is a
continuous process from birth to death.
3. Vocational Aim
It is known as the "bread and butter aim" of education. Education prepares a child for a
profession and enables him to earn his livelihood. Vocationalisation of education is the main aim
of Indian education.
4. Harmonious Development Aim
Harmonious development of personality was the aim of education in ancient system of
education. According to Pestalozzi, education is the harmonious development of head, heart and
hand. Harmonious development means the development of the total characteristics of the
individual.
5. Religious and Spiritual Aim
The term "religion" means particular systems of faith and worship. In ancient times, religion and
education had no separate existence and education was a part of religious life. Teaching of
religion would promote moral and spiritual values. The churches, temples and mosques were the
main pillars of education. Self-realization was the main aim of religious education.
6. Moral Aim
Teachers should impart courage, honesty and patriotism in pupils for creating a morally sound
man. Here the teacher should be the right model.
7. Development of Culture
The culture of a person includes their knowledge, belief, art, law, mode of communication, etc.
The main aim of education is to preserve, transform these qualities and make man cultured and
civilized.
8. Leisure Aim
Leisure means free and unoccupied time. Here education should aim at the wise and proper use
of leisure hours. Proper use of leisure will increase efficiency of the students and provide
pleasure to them. Leisure is essential and helpful in making our life dynamic.
9. Individual Aim
The aim of education is the autonomous development of the individual. It means
free growth of individuality. Education must cater for the complete development of
the individual.
10. Social Aim
According to John Dewey, "Education should aim at making each individual
socially efficient."
A socially efficient individual will not be a burden to the society. He can contribute
a lot to the progress of the society. Education for social aim is the education for
social service and education for citizenship.
11. Citizenship Aim
Education should prepare the individual for the different roles he has to perform in
life. Education for citizenship should train him to perform his duties and make him
conscious of his rights.
12. Self-Expression Aim
Self-expression means the full development of human abilities. Self-expression
leads to self-realization. Yet it is to be remembered that self-expression implies
fullness of character.
13. Complete Living Aim
According to Herbert Spencer, "Education should prepare the individual for
complete living."
Spencer’s laws of life include:
a) It should teach one how to earn a living.
b) It should prepare the pupil for social and particular duties.
c) It should ensure survival by imparting knowledge about duties and
responsibilities of children.
d) Knowledge of how we use leisure time profitably.
