Experience of Individual EU Member States in Education of Adults

Abstract

Purpose and Originality: The aim of this paper is to clarify key components of adult education in some of the European Union member states, to share their experience and the problems they are faced with regarding adult education policies and implementation in their country.

Method: This paper is based on literature review of policies and strategies, as well as relevant laws, regulations and guidelines of some of the European Union member states.

Results: In the countries that are members of European union, notably Slovenia and Croatia, adult education is an important component of education system, which has been verified through several important strategic documents on developing and implementing life-long learning concept and adult education, making it compatible with European goals and practices.

Society: The results obtained can be used as indicators to the European Committee and members of European Union in further development of laws and strategies concerning adult education to include larger number of their inhabitants in some form of adult education.

Limitations / further research: Adult education is multi-level process of acquiring knowledge, either formal or informal, that is based on furthering personal knowledge, skills and abilities. Lifelong education presupposes constant investment in people and knowledge, promotes learning new skills, which include digital literacy as well as increasing possibilities for innovative and more flexible ways of learning. The aim is to give all age groups equal and open access to high quality learning opportunities through various learning experience. Further research should be conducted on the ways to achieve the goal set by EU members: 15% of adults between the ages of 25 to 64 included in adult education in 2020.