Effective adult education

Abstract

The most important element for successful adult literacy and numeracy learning is to take a people-centred approach. Literacy and numeracy teaching should be incorporated into subjects that are directly relevant and useful for participants. Ideally, learners would be consulted on their priorities and be involved in the planning and design of the programme and of educational materials. The most effective learning will happen when adults are actively engaged in the construction of their own knowledge. Inter-generational or family learning programmes is one possible approach which has seen success in being responsiveness to the needs and concerns of learners. K4D helpdesk reports provide summaries of current research, evidence and lessons learned. This report was commissioned by the UK Department for International Development