Professionalisation of Adult Educators in the Context of Democracy

The growing importance of democratic adult education is reflected in the need for continuous support that ensures future-proof education which is responsive to socio-cultural diversities and inevitable future hazards. Existing democratic institutions of society are not what people should accept without a whisper – there is a need for continuous criticism through participation and dialogue. This allows the improvement given future needs. These needs should reflect mutual interests that are found as a result of varied forms of social intercourse. They require the ability to imagine the desired state of society and extensive deliberation that needs to be learned and developed. A comprehensive model of adult educators’ competences – that facilitate democratic values and conduct – might incorporate the ability to facilitate communication, collaboration and reflection that allow shared understanding and seeking alternative solutions that reflect the ‘power with’ mode.