Article Preview
Top2. Technology And Education
John A. Laska defines education as a deliberate attempt by a learner or by others to control (or direct, or guide, or influence, or manage) a learning situation for the purpose of obtaining the desired learning outcomes or goals (Chien, 2010). Enabling students to continue learning through education, and improving the environment of education and learning to cope with 21st century society are issues that we must think about (Theisens, 2008). Former UN Secretary-General Annan indicated at the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD): “Education is the key to sustainable development. Educating the public about sustainable development is more than just the incorporation of environmental protection into the curriculum framework, but also needs to foster a balance among economic goals, social needs, and ecological responsibility. Education must provide students with the skills, vision, value, and knowledge related to the sustainable development and life of the community. This requires interdisciplinary integration, i.e., integration of the concepts and analytical methods of different disciplines.” (Chang, 2004) The education mentioned here refers to a more comprehensive and diverse education, which differs from today’s education. Holistically speaking, education should not be limited to the imparting of knowledge or the teaching of technology, but should also focus on opening the truth and knowledge in mind (awareness). Master Xiao-Yun (1999) mentioned in his book Addresses on Enlightenment Education that developing environmental education may have unexpected outcomes because individuals in daily life are touched imperceptibly and impressively by the environment in various ways, more than speech hearing and acceptance. He also indicated in this book that the environment directly or indirectly affects individuals’ minds and bodies, creates their thoughts and develops their wisdom. In the real world, the environment is closely associated with individuals’ academic education and career development. It can be seen from Xiao-Yun’s words that holistic education should connect the teaching content to the real environment. The two must complement one another to develop the knowledge and insights of students.