Introduction
This course offers a brief introduction to adult learning in Europe. It will provide participants with a basic understanding of the main concepts behind non-formal adult learning and education, and how it is practiced in selected European countries. The course will also introduce participants to the concept of advocacy for improved adult learning policy and examples of successful advocacy initiatives.
The course has been developed by the European Association for the Education of Adults with the use of already existing resources. All of the videos and background reading included in the course have been produced either by EAEA in the framework of its EU-funded project work or by its member organisations, as clarified in each module.
Please note that the course only provides an introductory perspective on adult learning and education in Europe. For more comprehensive material, you can consult other resources, for example the Curriculum GlobALE online lectures developed by EAEA member DVV International.
Structure of the course and methodology
The course takes place on this online learning platform. You can attend the whole course or individual sessions.
The course will be composed of 4 modules, with the following topics and schedule:
1. What is adult education, and why do we need it? 10 October 2023
2. Adult learning practice in Europe: case studies from selected countries, 31 October 2023
3. Adult learning methods and approaches, 21 November 2023
4. Adult learning policy and advocacy, 19 December 2023.
Each lesson will include a short video, additional reading, and a task to complete.
Participant profile
Anyone with an interest in gaining a basic understanding of adult learning in Europe is encouraged to take part in the course, and especially:
- Adult education associations (including their staff)
- Adult education providers (including their staff)
- Adult education trainers
- Policymakers operating at the European and national levels (including EU institutions).
How to enrol
The study language is English and participation in the course is free of charge.
You can enrol in each module separately. Once you click on the module, first you have to log in or create your account (if you have not done it before). Then you can enrol as a student. After enrolling you will be able to see the full programme of the sessions included in the module. The website will guide you in the process.
Please check your spam folder for the confirmation email and do not hesitate to contact us should you have any issues with the registration process (eaea-office@eaea.org).
Recognition of participants’ learning outcomes
For each module, participants will receive a learning badge. A final certificate is foreseen for participants who complete all six modules.
The European Commission's support for the production of this platform does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.