Plato and the Future of Education

As we consider the future of education, I think it helpful to consider Plato's thoughts on education as well. Those in education seem to be at a crossroads of sorts in their acceptance of Plato as they push an agenda that is as far from Plato's own educational thoughts.

The Hellenistic influence is still powerful and widespread, but where the power and influence seem to be waning is in the field of education. When considering the future of education one reads of ideas like the virtual classroom and of self learning. We see the rise of the student in the educational process, which is, in itself, not all bad, but at the same time, we, also see the sinking of the teacher. There is a sense that the teacher can be replaced in this process because the process is about information. The paradox that technology brings is masked by the bells and whistles of technology, but a look back at Plato will quickly expose these new ideas for what they really are... old failed philosophies.

In his Republic, Plato presented his idea society. In his ideal state, matters are overseen by a guardian class, and slaves, and craftsmen and merchants are to know their place. It is this guardian class who are educated while other classes are only educated according to their vocational needs. While I disagree with Plato's views on education below the guardian class, I can still marvel in the education he proposes for the guardian class. It is this education that has been embraced by so many.

First, Plato believed that educators must have a deep concern for the well-being and future of those students they teach. Plato believed, correctly, that educating was a moral exercise, and it was the duty of the teacher to search for truth and virtue with the students they teach, and guide those they have a the responsibility to teach. This is a huge part of the role of a teacher, and it should not be left to a virtual classroom or technology.

Second, there is the ‘Socratic teaching method’. The teacher must know his or her subject, but as a true philosopher he or she also must know the limits of their knowledge. It is here that we see the power of dialogue – the joint exploration of a subject –  and the idea that knowledge will not come from teaching alone but from the questioning that occurs inside true dialogue. True dialogue requires a relationship between a teacher and a student, and that relationship must be based on truth, trust and concern.

Third, this is where we find Plato's conceptualization of the differing educational requirements associated with various life stages. We find the classical Greek concern for body and mind. We find the importance of exercise and discipline and of stories and games. Plato’s philosopher guardians followed an educational path of life until they were 50 years old. This speaks to the idea that education is not something to be learned, but a philosophy for life.

The current trend in educational thought as little in common with these thoughts. These ideas on education will only be transferred in a classroom with a caring, well-educated responsible adult. They will never be captured in a virtual classroom or in an educational process rooted in technology.