“Effective character education is not adding a program or set of programs to a school. Rather it is a transformation of the culture and life of the school.”
-—Dr. Marvin Berkowitz     

As the primary subject in the daily classes of our pupils, Character Education is truly in the frontline of the school curriculum. Though the time being spent with it is not that long as compared to other subject areas, Character Education sets the right path to our dear learners.

In Character Education also known as Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao, the right values that every Filipino child must possess are highly emphasized. The values of honesty, loyalty, patriotism, industry, trustworthy, love, faith, friendship, cooperation, obedience, courage and among others are being featured and explained to further shape one’s character.

Also, the value of family is highlighted in Character Education.  The respect and love which should be shown and given to the members of the family are being stressed.  The idea that family as the basic unit of the society which should strengthened is being taught in this subject.

Character Education also educates the child to deal with practical life situations.  Coping up with the hardships and challenges in life is one major concern of this learning area. Going through problems may not be so difficult if someone is properly trained in Character Education.

Caring for others and for the entire community is also elaborated in Character Education.  Having realized that man cannot live alone, the concern for the welfare of others is also significant.  This should be inculcated in the mind and heart of every child.

Planning one’s dream in life also starts in Character Education class.  We are normally asked by our teachers of what we want to be someday.  Even our aspirations and inclination are also cited for us to set the path we would like to pass through.

Character Education leads the child to self-expression.  It makes himself or herself ponder and contemplate the past, present and future events in life. It makes him/her recollect the things that happen in order to do the right things at present and to do better for the future.

It is not a mere subject but instead it is the vehicle for one to begin thinking of what are the things to consider in order to be a good person not for oneself alone but also for others. It arranges the components of life in order to have a better path.

Character Education deepens the child’s perception to the world.  It tries to make him/her realize the value of oneself and the importance of others.  Moreover, it tries to lead him/her to more desirable ways or values and directs him/her to right actions.

Above all, Character Education makes a learner enhance faith in the Creator. Significantly, instilling in him/her the blessings that God showered upon us is truly remarkable in Character Education.

Character Education is indeed directing.  It is truly leading the child to the right track.  It is indeed for the child’s transformation.

References:

http://www.edpsycinteractive.org/topics/affect/valuesga.html

http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0011/001143/114357eo.pdf

http://www.goodcharacter.com/Article_4.html

By: Emmanuel S. Angeles | Teacher III | Orani North Elementary School Orani, Bataan