The 18 types of education: classification and characteristics

Education is a process by which the learning of knowledge, skills, values ​​or attitudes is facilitated. Education occurs in different contexts, it can be presented in different formats or forms, and it can vary in content, but the goal is always the same.

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Types of education

In this article you will find the different types of education. However, it is necessary to emphasize that, although education is a universal concept, regulated education can vary from one country to another. In addition, each cultural context provides differences in the way of educating, so that in each of these categories there may be many nuances.

With that said, the different types of education are as follows.

Depending on the context

According to the context in which the education is delivered, can be: formal, non-formal and informal.

1. Formal education (regulated)

Formal education is regulated education. It is taught in educational centers and has three characteristics: it is regulated, it is intentional and it is planned. What does this mean?

Formal education is regulated by law, there is an intention behind the educational act, which is to train people professionally, and is planned because it follows an order that we will see later. After passing the different stages, certificates or diplomas are awarded.

2. Informal education

It is a type of education that is intentional and organized, but that is outside the formal realmTherefore, there is no law and it is not regulated by the governmental sphere. It can be recognized through certificates, but they have no professional value.

3. Informal education

Informal education is given without any intention, and occurs throughout life. It happens in the social sphere, for example, when parents educate their child in values. It is the one that has had the greatest importance in historical terms, since the formal one has been in existence relatively recently.

Thus, this is one of the types of education that occurs constantly throughout life, even in situations where you are not aware of it.

According to age and educational level (formal education)

Formal education follows a series of stages that must be progressively overcome. Education in Spain is regulated by the LOMCE (Organic Law for the Improvement of Educational Quality) and is compulsory until the age of 16. Primary Education (EP) and Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO) constitute Spanish basic education.

4. Infant education

Early childhood education is not compulsory and goes from 0-6 years. It is also known as preschool and occurs when children go to kindergarten or kindergarten. Also called P3, P4, P5. It is of great importance, since it involves the making of contact of many children with the educational system.

5. Primary education

The next stage is primary education, ranging from 6 to 12 years. It is compulsory and therefore free, with the exception of books and school supplies.

6. Secondary education

This stage goes from 12 to 16 years old and it is mandatory. It is made up of 4 courses, and it advances in the learning of mathematics, languages ​​and general culture. In turn, it allows access to more developed types of learning.

7. Upper secondary education

It is also known as post-compulsory secondary education and includes the baccalaureate and intermediate vocational training. It has a more trade-oriented approach and specific, practical knowledge.

8. Higher education

This stage represents higher-level vocational training and university studies.

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9. Post-college education

This stage includes the training that takes place after university, and includes postgraduate, master and doctorate degrees. It is considered that specialization apprenticeships are carried out in it.

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According to the format

Depending on how the education is presented, it can be: online, face-to-face or semi-face-to-face

10. Online education (distance)

Online or online education has gained ground in recent years because it is a comfortable alternative for those who do not have much time or live far from the place where the classes are taught.

This type of education is useful thanks to its many advantages, although it also has disadvantages. Learn about the pros and cons of this type of education in our article: "Online training: 7 advantages and 7 disadvantages of learning online"

11. Classroom education

Face-to-face education is taught in classrooms and attendance is usually compulsory. This is the classic education format.

12. Blended education

Blended education combines the two types of previous education. Therefore, in addition to face-to-face classes, it is also necessary to carry out online activities.

According to the content

It is possible to educate in skills, knowledge, values ​​...

13. Physical education

Physical education is a type of education that focuses on educating people on how, when, and why physical activity is necessary. It usually combines both theoretical aspects (anatomy, sports periodization, etc.) with physical and sports practice.

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14. Emotional education

This type of education is related to emotional intelligence. Emotional learning is closely related to occupational health and improved productivity. Some aspects of emotional education include: emotional self-awareness, emotional regulation and control, and knowing how to recognize the emotions of others.

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15. Education in values

Education in values ​​is not only necessary for coexistence with other people, but also Values ​​decisively influence how we interpret events and, consequently, with our health emotional. Education in values ​​includes moral education.

16. Intellectual education

Intellectual education aims for students to improve their cognitive skills, memory, reasoning and or critical opinion. Regulated education is based on this type of education.

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17. Social education

In addition to being an increasingly recognized profession, social education is a type of education that encourages the development of sociability and social circulation and cultural and social promotion.

18. Special education

Special education is that aimed at people with special educational needs, for example, due to intellectual giftedness or mental, physical or sensory disabilities.

Bibliographic references:

• Delors, J. (1996). The four pillars of education. Mexico: The UNESCO Courier, pp. 91 - 103.
• May, S.; Aikman, S. (2003). Indigenous Education: Addressing Current Issues and Developments. Comparative Education. 39 (2): 139 - 145.