The Influence of Confucian Education Thought
Confucianism，a Chinese ethical and philosophical system developed from the teachings of Confucius, who was the most influential and respected philosopher in Chinese history. His ideas relating to ren, etiquette, loyalty, filial piety, relationships, education; which are the strongest influences on Chinese society from around 100BC till nowadays, especially his education thought. And as the founder of the education thought in ancient China, Confucian creative ideas produce deep influence on later education theories and activities.
1. Confucius attaches importance to the role of education. He holds that education plays an important role on the development of the society, which is one of the three elements of governing, and the development of economy depends on the educational development. In nowadays, Chinese leaders put forward the strategy of developing the country through science and education, meanwhile pay more attention to education and talents. These policies and guidelines inherit and progress Confucian education thought.
2. Confucius advocates that provide education for all people without discrimination, which can be defined as a revolution in education in ancient China. His educational principle meets the desire of receiving education of common people and adapts to the social needs of development. Chinese modern schools including colleges and universities enroll the students those pass the unified exam from various regions and families, and teach them together.
3. Confucian basic educational purpose is educating talents and gentlemen, but his political motive of education is educating officials. Some of Confucian students took part in the political activities. Now the teachers also have specific aims as educating students, they hope their students could have excellent academic and be outstanding and come to the fore. Meanwhile, the students want to get high grade in order to pursue advanced studies or enter politics, too.
4. Confucian teaching has his own characteristics. He thinks that teaches students should in accordance of their aptitude, admit the individual differences among students and understand the characteristics of the students. Although the modern education could not teach students according to each characteristic, we allow students pick up their own lessons they like after entering universities. Confucius sticks to that learn should combine with think, and practice what you have learned, which still are the modern teachers emphasized, and the students should achieve. Finally, Confucius also set an example for the teachers later.