Key research themes
1. What core competences define effective adult educators across diverse European contexts?
This research theme investigates the essential skills, knowledge, and attitudes that adult educators must possess to facilitate effective adult learning. Given Europe's diversity in cultural, national, and institutional contexts, identifying a common set of competences informs professional development, credentialing, and policy frameworks that support adult educators’ roles in lifelong learning.
2. How do adult educators' professional roles and identities evolve amid sociopolitical and educational transformations?
This theme explores the dynamic conceptualization of adult educators' roles and identities in response to historical, cultural, and policy shifts. It emphasizes challenges adult educators face, including reconciling emancipatory ideals with neoliberal pressures, navigating societal changes such as democratization, and adapting to evolving educational landscapes. Understanding these evolutions is critical for informing training, support, and policy that sustain adult educators' relevance and effectiveness.
3. What are the challenges and effective strategies for supporting adult learners, especially in diverse and shifting educational environments?
This theme focuses on understanding adult learners’ barriers to participation and success, particularly in higher education, basic education, and language programs. It investigates how institutional structures, learner characteristics, and educational delivery impact access, retention, and outcomes. Additionally, it examines pedagogical responses and policy initiatives designed to enhance adult learners’ education in both formal and non-formal settings.