Towards Developing Contemporary Education Theory

Abstract

With the increased interest in Islamic countries to adopt a way of life based on Islamic law, the need has intensified for practical and scientific Islamic alternatives to social and economic problems facing the world in general and the Islamic nations in particular. Most countries of the world are undergoing severe education crises and reform is especially needed in education. The education systems in many countries have failed to develop the individual in relation to social and humanistic goals. Educational systems in the Islamic countries have been mostly modeled on those of Western countries. As a result, these Islamic countries are undergoing dual crises. First, the adopted education systems have had a severe impact on many aspects of daily life in the Islamic countries. Second, the adopted education systems frequently counter Islamic goals and ideals. Numerous thinkers and intellectuals in Muslim countries have emphasized the role of education in building a balanced and integrated individual personality in society. Hundreds of books were written discussing these issues. Various conferences were held to restore educational thought from the Islamic heritage. The effects of these efforts has resulted in emphasizing the successful role of Islamic education in shaping the person, rebuilding society, and contributing to civilization. Education in modern society plays an important role in training human resources to bridge the economic gap between the developed and developing ...