Describe the Jewish education system and suggest its relevance or otherwise to Nigeria’s system of education
As in virtually all traditional societies, education in ancient Israel was predominantly
familiar, that is, it is based on the family, with the mother playing a very significant role in the education of the very young. In most cases, girls followed their mothers’ vocations while boys followed their fathers’ professions. Thus, farmers brought up their sons invariably as farmers, shepherds as shepherds, fishermen as fishermen (realise that the brother Simon and Andrew were working as fishermen with their
father when Jesus called them). A very important aspect of the Jewish education involved providing moral and religious education. In this task of bringing up children in the fear of God, parents were to regard their duty as never ending as they are to teach their children and the children of their children’ (Deut. 4:9).
In the Jewish system, teaching was usually accompanied with corporal punishment as the book of Proverbs (13:24) indeed recommends this: ‘He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him.’ The discipline system was also the norm in the Jewish education system. Each great master had a number of disciples who learnt from him. Thus, Elisha learnt from and modeled his ministry on, Elijah; Jesus Christ had his 12 disciples, each of whom later had his own followers etc. The Jewish system of education is relevant in Nigeria education system in the
following ways;
A. Morality is held at high esteem in Nigeria system of education
B. Some institution still believes and uses corporal punishment in molding
characters of children.
C. In Nigerian tradition vocational education system, the disciple system is evident-this can be likened to the relationship that exist between masters and subordinates in Nigeria.
[mediator_tech]
The Jewish education system is deeply rooted in religious teachings and traditions, with a strong emphasis on the study of sacred texts, especially the Torah. It primarily centers on the teachings of Judaism and aims to instill a deep understanding of Jewish heritage, ethics, and values. Jewish education typically starts at a young age and continues throughout a person’s life, fostering a sense of community and identity among its followers.
In Jewish education, children attend religious schools known as “Yeshivas” or “Cheders,” where they learn Hebrew, engage in Torah study, and gain knowledge of Jewish history, laws, and customs. As students progress, they may study additional religious texts, such as the Talmud and Midrash, delving into more complex interpretations of Jewish teachings.
The relevance of the Jewish education system to Nigeria’s system of education can be evaluated based on several factors:
1. Cultural Preservation: Like the Jewish education system, Nigeria’s educational system can benefit from incorporating aspects of its rich cultural heritage into the curriculum. By preserving and passing on cultural traditions, values, and languages, the Nigerian system can help maintain a sense of identity and pride among its diverse ethnic groups.
2. Values and Ethics: The Jewish education system emphasizes moral values and ethical principles, which can be applicable to Nigeria’s education system. By promoting values such as honesty, integrity, and compassion, Nigeria’s education system can foster a sense of social responsibility and good citizenship among its students.
3. Sense of Community: The close-knit community aspect of Jewish education promotes a strong sense of belonging among its followers. Similarly, Nigeria’s education system can foster a sense of national unity and inclusivity among its diverse population.
4. Religious Literacy: Incorporating religious literacy into Nigeria’s education system can foster understanding and respect for the various religious beliefs in the country. This can contribute to religious tolerance and promote peaceful coexistence among different religious communities.
However, it is essential to recognize that Nigeria is a religiously diverse country with a significant Muslim population, along with followers of other religions. While aspects of the Jewish education system may be relevant, it is crucial to ensure that the educational system in Nigeria remains secular and accommodates the beliefs and practices of all its citizens.
In conclusion, the Jewish education system’s emphasis on cultural preservation, values, community, and religious literacy can offer valuable insights for Nigeria’s educational system. It can contribute to fostering a sense of national identity, promoting ethical behavior, and enhancing interfaith understanding. However, any adaptation of the Jewish education system must be done thoughtfully, considering Nigeria’s religious and cultural diversity and upholding the principles of secular education.
[mediator_tech]
1. The Jewish education system is deeply rooted in ________ teachings and traditions.
(a) Islamic
(b) Christian
(c) Religious
2. Jewish education primarily centers on the study of sacred texts, especially the ________.
(a) Bible
(b) Torah
(c) Quran
3. In Jewish education, children attend religious schools known as “Yeshivas” or “Cheders,” where they learn ________.
(a) French and English
(b) Hebrew and Arabic
(c) Hebrew and Torah study
4. The Jewish education system aims to instill a deep understanding of Jewish heritage, ethics, and ________.
(a) Mathematics
(b) Values
(c) Sciences
5. Jewish education fosters a sense of community and identity among its followers, similar to how Nigeria’s educational system can foster a sense of ________ among its diverse population.
(a) National unity
(b) Ethnicity
(c) Religious exclusivity
6. Jewish education typically starts at a ________ age and continues throughout a person’s life.
(a) Teenage
(b) Young
(c) Middle-aged
7. In Jewish education, students engage in the study of religious texts such as the ________.
(a) Shakespearean plays
(b) Talmud and Midrash
(c) Greek myths
8. The Jewish education system places a strong emphasis on promoting moral values and ________ principles.
(a) Scientific
(b) Ethical
(c) Political
9. Nigeria’s educational system can benefit from incorporating aspects of its rich cultural heritage into the curriculum to preserve its cultural ________.
(a) Heritage
(b) Identity
(c) Beliefs
10. By promoting values such as honesty, integrity, and compassion, Nigeria’s education system can foster a sense of social responsibility and ________ among its students.
(a) Tolerance
(b) Greed
(c) Apathy
11. The Jewish education system fosters a strong sense of belonging and ________ among its followers.
(a) Unity
(b) Division
(c) Disconnection
12. Nigeria’s education system can promote religious ________ by ensuring that students understand and respect various religious beliefs in the country.
(a) Exclusivity
(b) Tolerance
(c) Disagreement
13. While aspects of the Jewish education system may be relevant to Nigeria’s system, it is essential to ensure that Nigeria’s education system remains ________ and accommodating to all citizens.
(a) Secular
(b) Exclusive
(c) Partisan
14. Incorporating religious literacy into Nigeria’s education system can foster understanding and respect for various religious beliefs and contribute to ________.
(a) Intolerance
(b) Division
(c) Interfaith understanding
15. The Jewish education system’s emphasis on cultural preservation, values, community, and religious literacy can offer valuable insights for Nigeria’s educational system to promote national identity and ________ among its citizens.
(a) Unity
(b) Division
(c) Apathy
Key Points:
1. Education in ancient Israel was primarily based on the family, with parents playing a crucial role in the moral and religious education of their children.
2. Boys typically followed their fathers’ professions, and girls followed their mothers’ vocations.
3. Teaching in the Jewish system was often accompanied by corporal punishment as a means of discipline.
4. Great masters had disciples who learned from and modeled their ministry on them.
Explanation:
1. In ancient Israel, education was deeply rooted in family life, with parents taking on the responsibility of providing moral and religious education to their children. This highlights the significance of parental involvement in shaping a child’s character and values.
2. The notion that boys and girls followed their parents’ professions underscores the importance of vocational education and passing down skills and knowledge through generations. This approach to education promotes continuity and specialization in various trades and professions.
3. The use of corporal punishment as a disciplinary measure was prevalent in the Jewish education system. This practice was considered essential in maintaining discipline and instilling moral values in students. However, it is essential to recognize that corporal punishment has become a controversial topic in modern education, with many countries and institutions moving away from its use due to concerns about its effectiveness and potential harm.
4. The existence of disciples learning from and modeling their ministry on great masters emphasizes the significance of mentorship and apprenticeship in the Jewish education system. This system fostered a close relationship between the teacher and the student, allowing for the transfer of knowledge, skills, and values.
Relevance to Nigeria’s Education System:
A. Morality is held at high esteem in Nigeria’s education system: Similar to the Jewish education system, Nigeria places importance on moral and religious education. Emphasizing moral values helps shape students’ character and fosters a sense of responsibility and respect for others.
B. Some institutions still believe and use corporal punishment in molding children’s characters: Although the use of corporal punishment is becoming less prevalent globally, some institutions in Nigeria continue to employ this disciplinary approach. However, it is essential to consider alternative methods of discipline that promote positive behavior and emotional well-being.
C. In Nigerian tradition, vocational education and the disciple system are evident: Nigeria’s education system, particularly in traditional vocational settings, still follows the model of mentorship and apprenticeship. This system allows for the transfer of specialized skills and knowledge from experienced practitioners to the next generation.
Overall, while the Jewish education system offers some relevant aspects for Nigeria’s education system, it is essential to adapt these practices thoughtfully, considering modern educational needs and global trends. Striking a balance between cultural traditions and contemporary pedagogical approaches will help ensure an effective and inclusive education system for Nigeria.
[mediator_tech]
1. In ancient Israel, education was predominantly based on the ________.
(a) School system
(b) Family
(c) Government
2. Boys in the Jewish education system typically followed their ________ professions.
(a) Mothers’
(b) Fathers’
(c) Teachers’
3. The Jewish education system emphasized providing moral and ________ education to children.
(a) Political
(b) Religious
(c) Vocational
4. According to the book of Proverbs (13:24), corporal punishment was recommended as a means of ________ in Jewish education.
(a) Reward
(b) Discipline
(c) Encouragement
5. Great masters in the Jewish education system had ________ who learned from and modeled their ministry on them.
(a) Students
(b) Scholars
(c) Disciples
6. In Nigeria’s system of education, ________ is held at high esteem, similar to the Jewish education system.
(a) Creativity
(b) Morality
(c) Athleticism
7. Boys and girls in the Jewish education system were encouraged to follow their parents’ ________.
(a) Interests
(b) Rules
(c) Professions
8. The Jewish education system emphasized the importance of ________ involvement in shaping a child’s character and values.
(a) Teacher’s
(b) Parent’s
(c) Friend’s
9. The practice of corporal punishment in the Jewish education system is considered ________ in modern education.
(a) Outdated
(b) Effective
(c) Beneficial
10. Mentorship and ________ were prevalent in the Jewish education system.
(a) Apprehension
(b) Apprenticeship
(c) Admiration
11. The Jewish education system focused on providing religious education, fostering a strong sense of ________ among its followers.
(a) Spirituality
(b) Identity
(c) Competition
12. In Nigeria’s education system, some institutions continue to use corporal punishment as a means of ________ children’s behavior.
(a) Shaping
(b) Ignoring
(c) Neglecting
13. Nigeria’s education system places importance on moral and ________ education, similar to the Jewish system.
(a) Academic
(b) Vocational
(c) Religious
14. In the Jewish education system, each great master had a number of ________ who learned from him.
(a) Mentors
(b) Pupils
(c) Leaders
15. The Jewish education system’s emphasis on mentorship and apprenticeship is evident in the Nigerian tradition of vocational education and the ________ system.
(a) Education
(b) Teaching
(c) Disciple
Please note that these questions are for practice purposes and do not represent the actual exam content. Remember to create an answer key with correct responses for each question. Best of luck with your studies!
Describe the early Jewish education system and suggest its relevance or otherwise to Nigeria’s system of education.
Answer
The early Jewish education system was predominantly familiar, ie. it is based on the family. In most cases, girls followed their mothers’ vocations, while boys followed their fathers’ profession. Thus, farmers brought up their sons in variably as farmers, shepherd as shepherds, fishermen as fishermen. The father teaches the boys his profession and preparing them for caring of a family in future. Remember the case of Simon and Andrew (brothers) who were fishermen with their father when Jesus called them. The very important aspect of Jewish. education was providing moral and religious education. The command God gave Moses in Deut. 6:6-7 clearly Remonstrate this. Infact it was a requirement for every parent. Education was also rigid and exacting, as teaching was usually accompanied with corporal punishment.
Its relevance to Nigeria’s system of education are as
follows:
(1) It teaches moral and religious education.
(ii) Teaching was accomplished with corporal
punishment.
(iii) It enforces discipline.
(iv) Parents play vital role in educating the child. (v) Emphasis on the fatherhood of God brought a sense of intimacy.