Education is the process of facilitating learning, or the acquisition of knowledge, skills, values, beliefs, and habits. This process can occur through various experiences, including:
* Formal education: Structured learning within institutions like schools, colleges, and universities, typically following a curriculum. This is characterized by formal assessment and certification.
* Informal education: Learning that happens outside of structured settings, often through everyday experiences, interactions with others, and personal exploration. This can be self-directed or influenced by others casually.
* Non-formal education: Learning outside of the formal system, but with a structured approach, often focusing on specific skills or knowledge. Examples include vocational training or workshops.
Therefore, a comprehensive definition could be: Education is the intentional and systematic process of developing a person's cognitive, affective, and psychomotor abilities through various means, leading to the acquisition of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values. This definition highlights the multifaceted nature of education, encompassing intellectual, emotional, and practical development.