Einstein’s Educational Philosophy
In December of 1999, Time Magazine named Albert Einstein
“Person of the Century” arguing that his discoveries revolutionized
humans’ understanding of the universe.
Although lauded for his scientific mind, Einstein was also a
philosopher. Borrowing from his experiences living in Nazi Germany, or
during the time he spent straining to understand scientific principles,
he expressed his ideas about the challenges of daily life.
As Einstein was a professor of physics, quite a few of his most known
sayings relate to education. Take a look at ten pieces of Einstein’s
educational philosophy below—some are sure to inspire:
1. “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.”
Some subjects are difficult for students. Specialists obviously know
their subject very well, but it is important to see that subject from a
student’s perspective, and to not necessarily assume prior knowledge or
skills. As a teacher, you should try to place yourself in the frame of
mind of a novice learner, and only by doing this will you be able to
fully comprehend your own studies.
2. “Everything should be as simple as it is, but not simpler.”
Although explaining material simply is often the best way to
communicate to larger audiences, you shouldn’t water subjects down or
remove important complexities.
3. “Information is not knowledge.”
As instructors and teachers we need to ensure that students are not
just learning facts, but rather the meaning, trends, or application
behind these facts. In lectures, quizzes, and assignments, we need to
make sure that students are asked to understand and explain the
importance of the material being taught.
4. “Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.”
We need to encourage students in learning, and emphasize that when
they are done with a course or with a program their learning should not
stop. It’s likely they will be more fulfilled and successful in life if
they maintain a continued sense of curiosity and wonder about everything
around them.
5. “Do not worry about your difficulties in mathematics. I can assure you that mine are still greater.”
There is a myth that Einstein failed math when he was in school. He
didn’t—he actually did well. But the point he is making here is that
what he did in life did not come easily; he had to work very hard to do
well. As teachers, we need to convey that even the truly great have to
work to become great.
6. “I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.”
Here, Einstein is again saying that his great scientific achievements
required continuous effort and did not come to him “naturally.” He
simply had a passionate desire to learn new things.
7. “Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.”
Here, Einstein isn’t saying students should forget everything they
learn in school. On the contrary, we can interpret this to mean that if
you develop the habit of study and curiosity, long after you have
forgotten facts you retain an attitude that allows receptivity to new
ideas.
8. “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.”
As teachers we should find joy in our subjects, convey that joy to
students, and expect it to be reflected in students’ work. This isn’t an
easy thing to do, but it does make the subject memorable to those we
teach.
9. “When I examine myself and my methods
of thought, I come to the conclusion that the gift of fantasy has meant
more to me than any talent for abstract, positive thinking."
Einstein emphasizes that ideas and solutions come not only from
logical, systematic thought, but also through imagination and out-of-the
box thinking. If we can encourage this in our students, they will
profit both in our courses and in life.
10. “Concern for man and his fate must
always form the chief interest of all technical endeavors. Never forget
that in the midst of your diagrams and equations.”
We all want students to succeed in their courses and use their
education to achieve. But Einstein reminds us here that education
should not be purely utilitarian. As teachers, we need to stress that
whatever our students end up doing, it is important that they
continuously strive to contribute to society at large.
Email Id:-deepa.singh@soarlogic.com
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