Adult Education in Korea.

Overview & Synopsis

Adult and continuing education in Korea is associated with a national emphasis on social education in nonformal settings outside traditional elementary and secondary systems. During the last decades, achievements have included growth in the variety of programs, national attention to the necessity of adult and continuing education, and expansion of programs to meet the needs of more groups. Problems faced include shortage of financial resources and support, lack of coordination with universities, lack of knowledge pertaining to organization of adult instructional plans, an lack of information, materials, and learning experiences for instructional programs on the basis of community services. Korean society continues to provide educational opportunities through all the following programs: (1) vocational, technical, and professional education and training for Korean adults; (2) education for the use of leisure time, and maintenance of mental and physical health; (3) education for the aged through Jang Soo Schools; (4) education for home and family life, community development, and young adults through the Saemaul Movement and Youth Guidance programs; (5) rural, professional, and labor education through the New Community Movement; (6) public affairs and professional development through Civic School education; (7) liberal adult education through short-term training programs; and (8) women's adult and continuing education through the Wife's Study groups. (JT)