Definition

Noun: 1. A course (via lectures or correspondence) for adults who are not otherwise engaged in formal study: A structured program of learning designed specifically for mature individuals who are not enrolled in a traditional, full-time educational institution. It often aims to provide vocational skills, personal enrichment, or foundational knowledge.

Usage

• General Context: Refers to the entire field or concept of providing educational opportunities to adults.
• Specific Context: Can refer to a single class, program, or course offered within this field.
• Common Prepositions: "in adult education," "adult education courses," "adult education program."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The community college offers a wide range of adult education classes in the evenings.
  • She decided to pursue adult education to finally earn her high school diploma.
  • Funding for adult education has been increased to support workforce development.

Advanced Usage

• "Lifelong learning": A closely related concept emphasizing continuous learning throughout one's life, of which adult education is a key component.
• "Continuing education": Often used synonymously with adult education, particularly for non-degree courses taken after formal education.

Variants and Related Words

• Adult learner (n): A person who participates in adult education.
  • The program is tailored to meet the needs of the adult learner.
• Night school (n): A traditional form of adult education where classes are held in the evening.
  • He learned carpentry through night school.

Synonyms

• Continuing education: Education provided for adults after their initial formal schooling.
• Further education: (Primarily UK) Education beyond secondary school, often including vocational training for adults.

Related Phrases

• "Access course": (Primarily UK) A type of adult education course designed to prepare students for university-level study.
• "Vocational training": A common focus of adult education programs aimed at teaching specific trade skills or job-related competencies.

Noun

1. a course (via lectures or correspondence) for adults who are not otherwise engaged in formal study