What is formal education? Discuss the features of formal education.

by - March 20, 2025

What is formal education? Discuss the features of formal education.

What is controlled education? Discuss the features of controlled education.

Definition and features of controlled education.




Concept and definition of formal education / controlled education:-


Among the various forms of education, formal or controlled education is the most accepted and scientific system. In a word, traditional education or institutional education is called formal education. All the elements of formal education are well-controlled. In this type of system, teachers, students, curriculum and school - all the elements are managed in a well-controlled way. The age of the student, curriculum, teaching method, examination and evaluation - everything is pre-planned. The responsibilities and duties of the teacher are also pre-determined.

According to the Oxford dictionary, formal education is one in which every major and minor element of education is controlled and these controlling authorities are arranged in a hierarchical manner.

Features of Formal Education:-


The features of formal education are -

1. School:-
Formal education is conducted in specific schools. There are different types of schools in the society for different types of education. For example, primary school, secondary school - etc. Formal education provided in any other way than school is not recognized.

2. Teacher:-
The teacher is the main responsible for conducting formal education. The presence of different teachers according to the curriculum and subject can be observed in each school. Only qualified teachers get the opportunity to teach in regulated schools. In formal education, the teacher plays the role of a guide.


3. Curriculum:-
In the formal education system, the presence of a well-thought-out and well-planned curriculum can be observed. All types of classroom teaching - learning and evaluation are generally curriculum-specific. The curriculum is developed based on the child's ability and needs.

4. Specific age:-
In the formal education system, the age of the student is specific for different classes or curricula. Only students of the appropriate age get the opportunity to study in a specific class. For example, at present the age of admission to class one is six years.

5. Evaluation and Examination:-
Evaluation and examination are an integral part of all types of formal education systems. In controlled education, the qualifications of the student are tested through examinations. Currently, instead of one-time examinations, an evaluation system has been introduced throughout the year.

6. Specific goals:-
Formal education is conducted according to specific goals. These goals are - vocational goals, social goals, moral goals, democratic goals - etc. The main goal of all these goals is the all-round development of the student.

7. Discipline:-
Strict discipline can be observed in formal educational institutions. Participation in studying - teaching, co-curricular activities, evaluation - etc. is all managed through strict discipline. Even the slightest incident of violation of discipline is not desirable from any teacher or student.


8. Regular attendance: -
Regular attendance is mandatory for all teachers and students in formal educational institutions. Unnecessary absence is not tolerated in formal education. Moreover, if students are not present regularly, their excellence is hindered.

9. Teacher-Student Relationship: -
In the formal education system, there is an opportunity to get direct feedback from students in class teaching. As a result, teachers can easily identify which parts of a particular lesson the students are weak in and can take action as needed.

10. Variability: -
In formal education, various elements of education are variable. Such as curriculum, teaching methods, examination methods, co-curricular activities, etc., vary from time to time and place.

11. Dependence on textbooks: -
In the formal education system, textbooks are an essential part. Overall reading and learning are organized on the basis of textbooks. In formal education, the curriculum gets its real form through textbooks.

12. Role of the State:-
The state directly imposes its authority in various areas such as management of formal educational institutions, setting educational goals, financial resources, conducting examinations, teacher training and recruitment, granting school approval, construction of schools, etc. Even private educational institutions are bound to comply with the conditions imposed by the state.

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