Education (10/18/15)

Objective: Learn how education builds self-reliance.

PRINCIPLE 1: Education is an eternal principle.

DISCUSSION:  Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection.  Doctrine and Covenants 130:18  What is meant by the term “intelligence.”  A revelation of 1833 declared, "The glory of God is intelligence, or in other words, light and truth" (D&C 93:36). Elder John A. Widtsoe said, "The word intelligence, as used in common speech, means readiness in learning, quickness of mind. Its higher gospel meaning is more profound. The intelligent man is he who seeks knowledge and uses it in accordance with the plan of the Lord for human good.... Intelligence, [is] but another name for wisdom. In the language of mathematics we may say that knowledge, plus the proper use of knowledge, equals intelligence, or wisdom." (CR, Apr. 1938, p. 50.)

DISCUSSION: Education can enrich, ennoble, and provide understanding that leads to a happier life. Members should study the scriptures and other good books; improve their ability to read, write, and do basic mathematics; and obtain skills needed for suitable employment.  Providing in the Lord’s Way: Summary of a Leader’s Guide to Welfare.  How has education enriched your life?  Give examples.

              

PRINCIPLE 2: The need for education and educational requirements are constantly changing.

DISCUSSION: For Adults: How has the need for education changed since you were in school? For Youth: How are educational requirements changing as you prepare yourself for future employment? Possible answers include, 1. Education for employment has become / is becoming much more specialized. 2. Many jobs now require proficiency with computers and use of the Internet. 3. Foreign competition in manufacturing is making the job market more competitive; thus making those with more education more competitive. 4. Some job categories that once only required a high school education now require higher education. Vocational training has expanded greatly in recent years.  Whether it is vocational training or college training, education is the key to being gainfully employed.  Ask class members who may have experienced this to share their experience.  Ask adult or have adults share what subjects they studied in elementary and high school versus what their children studied or are studying.

PRINCIPLE 3:  Advancements in science and technology are moving so fast that continual education is a requirement for the workplace.

DISCUSSION: How does a person “keep pace” in today’s and tomorrow’s workplace? “In today's fast-paced business world, no one's going to give you permission to engage in continuous learning -- a strategy that is essential to your future success. You must take the initiative yourself.

Unfortunately, however, this attitude is far from the norm. Most people subscribe to the “inoculation” theory of education — “I got my degree (or diploma), and now I don’t have to learn anymore.” Not only is this attitude out of step with successful living, these days it may be downright dangerous! Accelerating change in nearly every area of human endeavor is making current knowledge obsolete at a faster pace than ever before. Gone are the days of the artisan, where one could learn a craft and utilize it for a lifetime, with little or no change. In short, the only constant these days is change itself.

To grow in our jobs and our family lives requires that we keep on growing and learning, long after our formal schooling is done. The more we’re able to know and the more skills we acquire, the more value we can offer to our employers, friends and families. And that places us in an upward spiral of growing income and emotional wellbeing. Well-known business author and change agent Tom Peters calls it cultivating “towering competence” — becoming the very best at what you do, by continuing to learn and hone your skills and capabilities to the point where they become highly regarded and sought after by your coworkers and professional peers.

Continuous learning means we’re keeping the “raw material pile” of our brain freshly stocked, which enables us to come up with more and better ideas and innovations — which every business needs today. New ideas and solutions are a primary way you can add value to your job, and therefore increase your success.”  www.InovationTools.com

DISCUSSION: What are some ways that people, even those still in school, can develop the pattern and habit of continual learning?  (List various ways )  Answers might include:

1. Develop good life-long reading habits.  Expand your areas of interests in reading.  Always be reading a good book, including and especially the scriptures.

2. Take classes offered by community agencies. Many good classes are offered free of charge.

3. Learn basic computer skills.

4. For families with children: Discuss “What did you learn today?” when together for a meal.

5. What are some other ways to apply life-long learning habits?

DISCUSSION: Given today’s discussions, how does education impact self-reliance?

Answers might include:

1. Education puts more resources within our grasp.  Have someone explain.

2. Education allows more control over one’s life.  Have someone explain.

3. Education gives us more options and choices in life. Have someone explain.