A Case for the Humanities in TAFE Courses: A Utilitarian Argument |
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| Abstract: | Abstract Education in Australia is a concern of the state. Tertiary education is based on philosophies of utility and political expediency. This is particularly true of technical and further education. To include a liberal education in technical and further education one can not argue for it, perse. A course must be shown to be materially useful and to have a place in economic productivity. This paper makes a utilitarian argument by showing the necessity for people to understand their industrial and economic world if they are to lead productive lives. Vocational education needs to include an understanding of what is common to all aspects of an industrial society. The humanities have a vital role to play, as only the humanities offer experience by means of analogies, metaphors, models, paradigms, ideologies and myths. By understanding these individuals can make well‐informed choices and so map out career and life paths for themselves. In this way they will not become passive victims of rapid technological change, by relying on outmoded traditions, but can help create their own productive world. |
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