How to Discern the Difference Between Training and Education
Training and education are two words that often seem interchangeable. Whether the name applies to a class, workshop or other academic program, many students and professionals alike do not readily understand both the fundamental and the subtle differences between the two. Discerning training and education is a matter of semantics for some, and a basic necessity for others. If you are embarking on a new career, considering a program of study or simply refreshing employment related skills, developing a sense of the differences between these two modes of learning can help you to make informed decisions.
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Instructions
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Learn the facts about education, or what is meant by the term. When referring to a formal education, it means the type of studying and programs that schools carry out -- anything from preschool to college and beyond. An education includes memorization of specific pieces of information and developing an understanding of concepts or philosophies. For example, the college classes that a philosophy major takes on knowing the names and philosophies of certain theorists are part of an education.
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Understand what training is. Unlike education, which includes memorization and the more abstract understanding of broad concepts, training typically includes working towards gaining a specific skill. Although you may take classes, seminars or workshops that are considered training, these programs and experience have concrete goals that focus on teaching you a quantifiable or measurable skill. For example, a hands-on workshop for an electrician on learning a new wiring technique would be considered training.
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Examine the skills that you will learn or develop. If the course or seminar states that you will gain general knowledge such as historical facts or an understanding of a concept such as educational theory, then you are taking part in an educational program. In contrast, if the learning goals include skill development such as honing new marketing techniques then you are participating in training.
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Tips & Warnings
Neither education nor training has to take place in a formal setting. A self-taught student can develop an education by reading books or articles. Likewise, you can gain training in a non-classroom setting such as on the job training experiences or even from how-to publications.
Training and education can occur at any age, but training most frequently is an adult pursuit. Although children can participate in training, such as potty training, the young learner mainly focuses on educational attainment such as learning math facts and figures.
Sometimes even the educator or trainer may not fully understand the difference between these two concepts. Use your own judgment to discern between a class that an organization lists as training or educationally oriented.
References
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