Adult Education in Australia.

Overview & Synopsis

This evaluative national survey begins with a brief historical review of Australian adult education, followed by its current (1968) profile and features of the overall educational system. The next six chapters consider the role played by universities, Federal and state governments, the Workers' Educational Association and other voluntary organizations, educational radio and television, rural extension, and the nation's emerging residential adult education movement. Professional refresher courses, aboriginal adult education, and other provisions for special groups are noted, as well as adult educator training and research, educational implications of the book publishing and mass media industries, educational opportunities in the Australian Army, university level external (off campus) study, and the 1966-67 crisis caused by the Australian Universities Commission recommendation that universities abandon participation in adult education. The last five chapters present comparisons with adult education in New Zealand and overseas, impressions of Australian adult education by Canadian adult educator J. Roby Kidd, issues in science education, and an assessment of future trends and opportunities. The document includes chapter bibliographies and five charts and tables. (LY)