A Popular Education Handbook

Arnold, Rick and Burke, Bev

Publisher:  CUSO Development Education, Ottawa, Canada
Year Published:  1983   First Published:  1983
Pages:  59pp   Price:  $3.95  
Book Type:  Handbooks/Manuals
Resource Type:  Book
Cx Number:  CX2942



Abstract:  Subtitled "An Educational Experience Taken From Central America And Adapted To The Canadian Context," this handbook takes its inspiration from three years the authors spent living and working in Central America. There, they were influenced by the "popular education" approach to adult education that they experienced, especially in Nicaragua. The booklet is the product of over 40 workshops in which they attempted to adapt what they learned in Central America to education about social issues in Canada. Beginning with an overview of popular education methodology, the booklet goes on to outline several specific workshop examples. This is followed by a detailed "how to" of five creative methods used within the workshops: "human sculpturing", "socio-drama," "role play," drawing, and song-writing. A section on "Build Your Own Resources" looks specifically at how to put together a slide-tape production.

The authors define popular education as having the following characteristics: 1. The starting point is the concrete experience of the learner. 2. Everyone teaches; everyone learns. 3. Involves a high level of participation. 4. Leads to action for change. 5. Is a collective effort; focusing on group rather than individual solutions to problems. 6. Stresses the creation of new knowledge, rather than the passing on of existing knowledge. 7. The process is ongoing - any time, place, or age. 8. It's fun.

Subject Headings

• Popular Education