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Education, True Education, Remains Key |
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Lest we forget, education is at the center of who we are and remains the cornerstone of our societal framework. When education is working well and effectively, American society thrives and remains strong and resilient. When education loses its way, the very fabric that holds us together as a people becomes strained and America suffers. It's really that simple.
For almost a hundred and fifty years now progressives have been setting the tone and form for the American education system. It has reached a point where many people no longer question why schools run the way they do. Why do we segment subjects in the way we have? Why do we continue to neglect the teaching of history?
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This I know: if we are to restore our republic to a proper footing and return our governance to what was intended by the founding fathers, we must see to the proper education of America's children. |
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Classical education is the pursuit of wisdom and virtue by means of a rich and ordered course of study grounded in the liberal arts tradition.
- National Classical Education Symposium |
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The central question that needs to be asked at the outset is this: what is the purpose of education? Is it as Progressives would have us believe, that education is all about preparing one to enter the workforce? Or is there something more to it? Is education meant to instill wisdom by seeing to it that a student grows in understanding of the divine nature of the four key battlement areas, namely beauty, virtue, reason, and wonder?
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"The principles of classical education are grounded in the belief that education should be focused on the development of the whole person, rather than simply the acquisition of knowledge or skills. At its core, classical education emphasizes the trivium and quadrivium, which are the seven liberal arts that were studied in ancient Greece and Rome.
"It should be noted that “liberal arts” derives from the Latin words for freedom (libertas, -atis) and skill (ars, -tis). Thus, the notion is one that posits the natural human skills that all men and women can develop and utilize for free. There is no cost or permission necessary to engage the created world and one’s life. The Creator in fact placed this capacity in Man for the purpose of Man actualizing his full nature in order to glorify the Lord in return for His great gift to Man.
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"The trivium is comprised of grammar, logic, and rhetoric, while the quadrivium includes arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy. These subjects were viewed as foundational to a well-rounded education, as they provided students with a comprehensive understanding of the world around them.
"In addition to the trivium and quadrivium, classical education places a strong emphasis on language. This includes the study of Latin and Greek, which are viewed as important for developing critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the English language. I myself can attest to the development of my thinking that occurred once I studied both these languages in my years of pre-theology. As difficult as those classes were, I am deeply appreciative of my exposure to such structured languages (especially Latin)!
"The principles of classical education also stress the importance of a liberal arts education, which is designed to provide students with a broad knowledge base in a range of subjects. This approach helps to develop critical thinking skills and a greater appreciation for the arts and humanities.
"One of the key benefits of a classical education is its focus on logic, rhetoric, and language. These skills are viewed as essential for developing effective communication and reasoning abilities, which are valuable in any career or profession.
"Furthermore, a classical education provides students with a strong foundation in history, literature, and the arts, which helps to cultivate a wholesome approach to the well-crafted world. This approach encourages students to think critically and independently, rather than simply memorizing facts or regurgitating information. Though, the earlier years of classical education will lean heavy on memorization as it helps lay the building blocks for later knowledge apprehension.
"In sum, the principles of classical education emphasize the development of the whole person, rather than simply the acquisition of knowledge or skills. By focusing on the trivium and quadrivium, language, and a liberal arts education, students are able to develop critical thinking skills and a broad knowledge base that will serve them well throughout their lives." |
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The Key Advantages of a Classical Education |
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Looking to learn how we got into this mess? And perhaps more importantly,
how we get out of it? Read this book! |
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The final section of Pete Hegseth's book Battle for the American Mind is spent looking into what it is that makes classical Christian education much more advantageous than the alternative of what government schools provide.
One source lists the set of key benefits of classical education as:
Enhanced Critical Thinking: Classical education emphasizes logic, analysis, and the Socratic method, which develop students’ ability to think deeply and critically about complex issues. This skill is invaluable in all aspects of life, from personal decision-making to professional problem-solving. Effective Communication: Through the study of rhetoric, debate, and great literature, students learn to express themselves clearly and persuasively in both written and oral forms. This proficiency in communication is a significant advantage in higher education and future careers. |
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Strong Character Development: Classical education integrates moral philosophy into its curriculum, helping students develop strong character and ethical decision-making skills. This focus on virtue prepares students to navigate life’s challenges with integrity and purpose. Foundational Knowledge: Classical education provides a strong foundation in scientific thinking and language skills. Learning Latin, for example, strengthens understanding of English grammar and vocabulary and fosters precision in thought and expression. Holistic Approach: Unlike modern education, which often focuses on information transfer and skill development, classical education aims to shape students’ characters. By integrating biblical principles with classical literature and philosophy, students are encouraged to reflect on moral and ethical questions, fostering a deep sense of right and wrong. Lifelong Learning: Classical education nurtures a genuine love for learning that extends beyond the classroom. Students are encouraged to ask questions, explore ideas, and develop a lifelong passion for knowledge. Classical education provides a robust, holistic approach to learning. |
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