“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” This profound observation by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle captures the essence of sustained success and personal growth. Living in the 4th century BCE, Aristotle was a student of Plato and the tutor of Alexander the Great. His contributions to a wide range of disciplines, including ethics, logic, and education, have left an indelible mark on Western thought.
Aristotle: The Philosopher of Practical Wisdom
Aristotle believed in the power of habits to shape character and destiny. Unlike his predecessors, who often focused on abstract ideals, Aristotle was concerned with practical wisdom and the day-to-day actions that lead to a virtuous and fulfilling life. He argued that excellence is not a single act or event but a consistent practice that becomes ingrained in our very being.
For Aristotle, virtue was about finding the balance between extremes and consistently choosing the right actions. This approach to ethics underscores the importance of habituation – the process by which repeated actions form character traits. In education, this philosophy provides a powerful framework for developing not just academic skills but also the virtues necessary for a successful and meaningful life.
Applying Aristotle’s Wisdom to Excellence in Education
Aristotle’s insight into the nature of excellence can profoundly impact educational practices. Here’s how his philosophy can be applied to foster excellence in education:
1. Consistent Practice and Discipline
Excellence in education is achieved through consistent effort and discipline. Just as athletes train daily to hone their skills, students must engage in regular study and practice to excel academically. Educators can cultivate this habit by encouraging daily routines that include reading, writing, and problem-solving exercises.
2. Cultivating a Growth Mindset
Aristotle’s belief in the power of habituation aligns with the concept of a growth mindset, popularized by modern psychologist Carol Dweck. A growth mindset encourages students to view challenges as opportunities to develop their abilities through persistent effort. By emphasizing that intelligence and talent are not fixed traits but can be developed through dedication and hard work, educators can inspire students to strive for continuous improvement.
3. Holistic Development
Education should aim to develop not only intellectual skills but also moral and emotional virtues. Aristotle emphasized the importance of balance and moderation, which can be applied to fostering well-rounded individuals. Schools can integrate character education, promoting values such as integrity, empathy, and perseverance alongside academic learning.
4. Learning by Doing
Aristotle was a proponent of experiential learning, believing that knowledge is best acquired through direct experience and active engagement. This principle can be applied in the classroom by incorporating hands-on activities, real-world problem-solving, and collaborative projects. Such approaches make learning more dynamic and relevant, helping students to internalize concepts more deeply.
5. Creating a Supportive Environment
Excellence flourishes in a supportive and nurturing environment. Educators and institutions should create spaces where students feel valued and encouraged to take risks and learn from their mistakes. Positive reinforcement, constructive feedback, and a culture that celebrates effort and progress can help students develop the habits necessary for excellence.
Aristotle’s timeless wisdom reminds us that excellence is not a fleeting achievement but a sustained practice. In the context of education, this means fostering habits of consistent effort, resilience, and moral integrity. By applying Aristotle’s insights, educators can help students not only achieve academic success but also develop the virtues that will enable them to lead fulfilling and impactful lives. In this way, Aristotle’s philosophy continues to illuminate the path to true excellence, guiding both educators and students towards a brighter future.
Part II of the Ancient Wisdom Series
Stephen Smith CEO Illuminare Education Ltd, June 14th, 2024