Developing Social Equity in Australian Adult Education: Lessons from the Past

Developing Social Equity in Australian Adult Education: Lessons from the Past explores the trajectory of an Australian adult basic education program from its humanist, social justice beginnings to forty years of destabilizing change, identifying the influences and influencers that have directed this change. It discusses lessons that can be learned from the past to mobilize a new set of actors to promote an alternate discourse.

Format: Hardback
Length: 122 pages
Publication date: 08 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Developing Social Equity in Australian Adult Education: Lessons from the Past
presents a comprehensive case study of the trajectory of an Australian adult basic education program in New South Wales, spanning forty years of significant and destabilizing change. It delves into the intricate web of influences and influencers that have shaped this program's evolution, shedding light on the forces that initially established the field in its humanist and social justice foundations and the subsequent displacement of these actors by more powerful entities representing the global influence of the neoliberal ideology. The story unfolds primarily through archival evidence and the insightful voices of those practitioners who played pivotal roles in shaping the discourse and practices of the program's early years. These individuals were compelled to adapt to rapidly evolving policies and socio-economic contexts, making their experiences a rich source of insights.

The book offers valuable lessons from the past that can be leveraged to mobilize a new generation of actors to promote an alternative discourse. It appeals to students and scholars of social justice and adult education, as well as practitioners actively engaged in adult education. By examining the historical context and the complex interplay of forces, Developing Social Equity in Australian Adult Education: Lessons from the Past provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing adult education in Australia today.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the field of social justice and adult education, providing a comprehensive analysis of the past and offering insights into the potential for promoting social equity in Australian adult education. It is a must-read for students, scholars, and practitioners alike, as it sheds light on the complex dynamics that have shaped the field and offers valuable lessons for building a more inclusive and equitable education system.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 141 x 222 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367689841