Adult Education in Contemporary Society

Adult Education in Contemporary Society

Ultimately, adult education improves society and the individual at the same time. Hal Beder's studies indicate that most adult learners believe they have improved themselves and their employment after completing adult education courses. This improves the individual, giving them better job opportunities, more confidence in themselves and their abilities, and better skills to help take care of themselves and their families. However, a better-educated society is a more productive and successful society. Many of the readings and statistics show that there are still a remarkable number of people who have not completed high school in our country (I believe the number was 40% according the Census Bureau). This is startling, because it is such a high number. Many of these people are productive members of society, but they struggle with issues like poverty and hunger, simply because they do not have the education or skills to get good paying jobs.

I believe the best place to be on this particular continuum is right in the middle, keeping a balance between improving the individual and society. As we improve more individuals, (due to the increase in adult education classes and programs), we ultimately improve society, as well. The current economic crisis is a very good example of this. College enrollments are up, because out-of-work adults are going back to school to get new skills or change careers so they can become employed again. These people will improve themselves, but as they join the ranks of the employed again, they will also help improve society and help the nation get back on its feet financially. Personally, my experiences in the field have been as educator and learner, and my focus has been on the individual learners, and the distance learning experience as a whole. The program encompassed many individuals, but each student was an important element, so the focus was on the individual's experience and success, rather than the overall impact on society.