From the earliest contributions of Native Americans in the colonial period to the workforce preparation crisis in the 1980s, this book explores the patterns, themes, and changing ideologies of learning and education in adulthood.Harold W. Stubblefield and Patrick Keane detail the broad context of adult learning and its relationship to social, economic, and political movements throughout American history. Giving special attention to issues of race, ethnicity, class, religion, and gAnder, the authors examine the institutions, agencies, and programs that have disseminated knowledge and culture to adults. They describe the ideology of self-improvement and the role of adult education in the struggle against social injustice, economic powerlessness, and segregation. And they show the alternative educational systems--including women's organizations, self-help efforts of African Americans, and education programs created by industrial workers and farmers--created to address interests ignored by the larger society.From the earliest contributions of Native Americans in the colonial period to the workforce preparation crisis in the 1980s, Adult Education in the American Experience explores the patterns, themes, and changing ideologies of learning and education in adulthood.

Originally published in 1988 this book examines the work of the first generation adult education theorists and the traditions that their work helped establish. They debated the issues, aims and content of adult education programmes and began to explore the often difficult relationship between social expectations and the potential of education. As well as providing an authoritative history during a period of rapid social change in America, the book confirms that many of the preoccupations of the early thinkers have continued relevance today.

This history of the adult education movement is liberally seasoned with footnotes and bibliographical references which can lead to other sources for further study, if desired. The book gives an insight into the role of adult education in shaping our national culture.

A research-based foundational overview of contemporary adult education Foundations of Adult and Continuing Education distills decades of scholarship in the field to provide students and practitioners with an up-to-date practical resource. Grounded in research and focused on the unique needs of adult learners, this book provides a foundational overview of adult education, and an introduction to the organizations and practices developed to support adult learning in a variety of contexts. The discussion also includes select understandings of international adult education, policy, and methods alongside theoretical frameworks, contemporary and historical contexts, and the guiding principles of adult education today. Coverage of emerging issues includes the aging society, social justice, and more, with expert insight from leading authorities in the field. Many adult educators begin practice through the context of their own experiences in the field. This book provides the broader research, theory, and practice needed for a deeper understanding of adult education and its place in society. Learn the key philosophical and theoretical frameworks of adult education Survey the landscape of the field through contemporary and historical foundations Examine key guiding understandings and practices targeted to adult learners Delve into newer concerns including technology, globalization, and more Foundations of Adult and Continuing Education provides an expertly-led overview of the field, and an essential introduction to real-world practice.

A research-based foundational overview of contemporary adult education Foundations of Adult and Continuing Education distills decades of scholarship in the field to provide students and practitioners with an up-to-date practical resource. Grounded in research and focused on the unique needs of adult learners, this book provides a foundational overview of adult education, and an introduction to the organizations and practices developed to support adult learning in a variety of contexts. The discussion also includes select understandings of international adult education, policy, and methods alongside theoretical frameworks, contemporary and historical contexts, and the guiding principles of adult education today. Coverage of emerging issues includes the aging society, social justice, and more, with expert insight from leading authorities in the field. Many adult educators begin practice through the context of their own experiences in the field. This book provides the broader research, theory, and practice needed for a deeper understanding of adult education and its place in society. Learn the key philosophical and theoretical frameworks of adult education Survey the landscape of the field through contemporary and historical foundations Examine key guiding understandings and practices targeted to adult learners Delve into newer concerns including technology, globalization, and more Foundations of Adult and Continuing Education provides an expertly-led overview of the field, and an essential introduction to real-world practice.