The German System of Adult Education

Description

Concept by Francesco Molinari

This course is designed to equip educators and adult learning professionals with practical strategies and methodologies for implementing cross-curricular, intercultural, and targeted approaches in adult education settings.

During the course, participants will explore the methods and activities of the Adult Education system in Germany, in which a range of skills and competencies aimed at promoting active engagement, fostering autonomy, and enhancing learning outcomes for adults have been successfully implemented.

Through interactive workshops, discussions, and hands-on activities, participants will practice specific methods and activities developed for adult learners in face-to-face, blended, and self-paced modes.

The key principles and practices of student-centered learning, including context-based and inquiry-based approaches will be examined and put into practice.

Participants will also learn how to create inclusive and supportive learning environments that foster autonomous and independent learning in adult learners, which are crucial elements of motivation especially for adults.

By the end of the course, participants will develop specific skills and competencies implemented within the German adult educational system and useful to design and facilitate independent learning for adult learners, taking into account diverse needs, interests, aspirations, and learning environments.

Learning outcomes

The course will help the participants to:  

• Understand the principles and benefits of the German System of adult education;
• Explore a variety of student-centered teaching methodologies and instructional strategies;
• Apply student-centered approaches to curriculum design, lesson planning, and assessment;
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive learning environment conducive to adult learners’ growth and development;
• Reflect on German teaching practice dedicated to adult learners and identify opportunities for integrating student-centered methods effectively.

Tentative schedule

Day 1 – Introduction to student-centered learning

• Welcome and course overview;
• Understanding the concept and principles of student-centered learning;
• Exploring the benefits and challenges of the German adult educational approach;
• Interactive activity: reflecting on personal teaching philosophies and practices.

Day 2 – Active learning strategies and cooperative learning

• Introduction to active learning techniques and methodologies according to the German system;
• Overview of pedagogical theories and methodologies relevant to adult education, such as andragogy, experiential learning, and transformative learning;
• Workshop on designing learner-centered lesson plans and activities tailored to the needs and interests of adult learners, incorporating principles of active participation and reflection.

Day 3 – Digital tools in German adult instructional practice

• Examining the role of technology and digital tools in German adult education, including online learning platforms, blended learning models, and digital literacy skills;
• Interactive workshops and case studies exploring strategies for creating inclusive learning environments and addressing barriers to participation.

Day 4 – Inclusion in the German adult instructional system

• Understanding the diverse needs and backgrounds of adult learners in Germany, including migrants, refugees, seniors, and individuals with disabilities;
• Role-playing exercises and language immersion activities to practice facilitating language learning and fostering intercultural communication skills among adult learners.

Day 5 – Assessment and reflection

• Understanding the importance of program evaluation and quality assurance in German adult education, including stakeholder engagement, data collection methods, and continuous improvement strategies;
• Conducting a mini-program evaluation exercise, followed by group discussions on findings and recommendations for enhancing program effectiveness and sustainability.

Day 6 – Course closure and cultural activities

• Course evaluation: round-up of acquired competencies, feedback, and discussion;
• Awarding of the course Certificate of Attendance;
• Excursion and other external cultural activities.