Recently, a book that I have been reading introduced me to the distinction between literacy and education. It felt intriguing to know what I was about to read is going to clear a misconception that I probably held from a long time.

Literacy is the knowledge that one possesses in any subject. Education, on the other hand, is the reflection of the same knowledge in one’s actions. Literacy revolves around learning while education demands the ability to translate the learning into practical application.

While the ideology might sound simple, within its depth and breadth lies an enormous scope to explore and develop ourselves in a truly comprehensive manner. To understand this scope, let us begin discussing about a common scenario. Learning Mathematics in school might make school kids literate in it, and enable them to score good grades in the subject. But when can we say that they are educated? When they can pleasantly surprise their dad by explaining how compound interest, in real-time, works on the house loan they are about to take? I think yes.

Learning something can only make one literate but not educated. There is no denying the importance of acquiring knowledge. But in recalling it at the right time and applying it practically lies mastery, and one who possesses such mastery can be considered educated in a subject.

Literacy meets education where knowledge reflects in action. Hence, literacy can be viewed as a tool that helps one become educated. However, education is not just mastery of a subject. It is one of the two dimensions of education. So, what constitutes the other dimension?

Education is the manifestation of the perfection already in man

Education is also meant to elevate the character and liberate one from ignorance. This dimension, in my opinion, is profound as it is all about the mastery of oneself. Education is not only about subject, but also about conduct. As important it is to become technically proficient in what we do, it is equally important to build a strong character based on virtues. A scholar who is a master at something can be called literate, but not educated unless the mastery in subject is complemented by a virtuous behavior. A student with exemplary grades and excellent practical knowledge cannot be considered educated if he/she exhibits a behavior deprived of virtuousness.

Knowing about the two dimensions of education has clearly made me realize that I am just a literate, and not educated. But the mere realization of this fact, according to me, is highly essential as it sheds light on what needs to be worked on to make progress in my comprehensive development as an individual. The next time I learn something, I surely will acknowledge that there is a lot left to learn if I am incapable of applying it practically. And I believe that such an attitude would bring a positive change in the way I, and any other who trusts the true meaning of education, would make attempts to imbibe the first dimension of education. Furthermore, I also believe that a good character is something that reinforces the first dimension and elevates one to a higher level. Hence, education is a process to practice, endlessly.