Systems of adult education: Can we learn from experience?

Abstract

This paper presents a critical appraisal of the changes that have been occurring in adult education in the UK: it asks the question as to whether there has ever been a system of adult education and relates it to the state. The author claims that by not having a strong system there has been flexibility in adult education but, at the same time, the lack of a single system has resulted in uneven provision across the country and, with recent changes in government policy towards local government, this may have profound long-term effects. The experience of the UK is offered as a case study from which other countries might learn. © 1994 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.