As stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, “education is a fundamental human right directed toward the full development of the human personality and to the promotion of respect for human rights.” In fact, many of the deepest problems in today’s education systems arise because of our failure to keep this basic principle in mind. Edutopia Weekly provides a curated collection of evidence-based strategies to improve the way education is delivered. This includes: formal vs. non-formal education, how to choose a career, and what education to invest in.
Investing in education as an asset
While education is an essential right, it also has its price. A lack of quality education has high costs for the society, including public spending, crime, and a decline in economic growth. The most effective way to improve a nation’s educational system is to invest in early childhood education. The challenges that nations face in education are different from continent to continent. The challenges are related to demographic changes and a changing industrial situation.
An education provides a distinct advantage in securing employment, staying employed, and gaining higher wages. It also gives you the skills to quickly learn new things, which helps as you transition between jobs or navigate your professional life. By investing in your education, you’ll be ahead of the competition and enjoy life longer. However, investing in your education shouldn’t be the only reason to invest in it. In fact, it may be the single most important asset you ever invest in.
Formal vs. nonformal education
When it comes to the goals of nonformal education, the differences between the two systems cannot be ignored. The former is oriented towards the student and encourages participation in learning. The latter is flexible, which allows it to respond to changing needs faster. For many reasons, nonformal education is preferred. The following are some of the differences between the two systems. If you are wondering which system best meets your needs, read on to learn more about each.
While formal education is classroom-based and accompanied by trained teachers, informal education happens outside of the classroom. It may take place in after-school programs, museums, community-based organizations, or even at home. The strengths of each system differ, but they both help students develop skills and attitudes. In addition, both systems provide a unique environment that helps students flourish. In addition, informal education doesn’t have a set curriculum.
Investing in education as a career choice
Investing in your education is important in many aspects of life. It increases your knowledge and skills in a particular area, and it can lead to a higher-paying job or even your own business. Whether you want to become a professional engineer, or a healthcare provider, education is a worthy investment. Education can also help you get the job of your dreams. It will also help you enhance your family life.
Having a college degree increases your earning potential. You can expect to earn 38% more than a high school graduate. On average, college graduates earn between $30,000 and $50,000 more a year than those who only have a high school diploma. In addition to that, a college degree can also lead to a better job. You’ll be more likely to land a higher-paying job in your chosen field.
Investing in education as an opportunity cost
A study conducted in the United States in 2000 concluded that investing in education was an opportunity cost. Returns on education are higher in low-income countries, and are even higher in middle-income countries. Investing in education also has an effect on the level of income tax paid by investors. This study shows that investment in education provides an average rate of return of about ten percent. The rate of return has decreased in high-income countries over the past few years, even as the level of education has increased.
Despite this negative impact, education remains an important investment. Skilled workers are in demand and the social value of human capital remains high. However, the social rate of return of education is understated primarily due to the omission of externalities. Putting a monetary value on decreased mortality rates would increase the social rate of return. But how do we know if education is an opportunity cost?