Difference Between Education and Learning

Main Difference – Education vs. Learning

“The only thing that interferes with my learning is my education.” This is a famous quote by Mark Twain. Have you ever heard this quote before and wondered about the difference between education and learning. Then this article is written for you. In this article, we are going to discuss the difference between education and learning. Both education and learning are two words that are related to the acquisition of knowledge. The main difference between education and learning is that learning is the acquisition of knowledge or skills through study, experience, or being taught while education is the process of receiving or giving systematic instruction, especially at a school or university.

What is Education

Education can be described as the acquisition of knowledge through a process of receiving or giving systematic instruction. Education is an essential factor to the progress of a society, and it is compulsory in most countries up to a certain age. Education is also considered to be a basic human right.

Education often takes place under the guidance of instructors and teachers. Education is often considered to be formal. Formal education takes place in a structured environment; multiple students are educated under a certified, trained teacher in one classroom.

We usually associate the word education with formal education, i.e. primary, secondary and tertiary education. In all these formal settings, there is a set curriculum, and the students are taught by an educator. The students might not be really interested in what they are being taught, but they study and memorize the lessons in order to get marks and pass the exams. It has an extrinsic value to the students. Thus, the term education cannot be used to measure the knowledge or the extent of their learning. Though they have received an education, they have not learned properly.

What is Learning

Learning can be defined as the acquisition of knowledge behaviors, skills, values, or preferences. Learning can occur through education, personal development, schooling, training or experience. It can occur consciously and unconsciously. Learning is not limited to a certain age or period in life; we learn throughout our lives. Learning is not listening and accepting what we are taught, but understanding and experiencing them.

It is important to notice that not only humans have the ability to learn, but animals, plants, and even some machines also have the ability to learn. A person is interested in learning when he is prompted by curiosity and intrinsic motivation.