[NLA] education system or human services?

[JATDP@aol.com]

In a recent post Debbie Yoho mentioned the government's role in human 
services. I'm not sure if you was referring to adult education as a human 
service, Debbie, but it reminded me of an issue that I don't think has been 
brought up on the NLA, one which I believe is important to policy.

Does adult education fit in the category 'human service,' or should we refer 
to the work we do as part of the education continuum? Does it matter? What 
are the policy implications if policy makers think of the field as a human 
service? as a system of education? Does the designation contribute to the 
field's marginalization in the eyes of US DOE and their statistical reports? 
Why aren't other sectors of education considered human service? Does the 
culture of human services differ from the culture of education? If there are, 
do these differences impact the vision of the field that David has drawn? Or 
the process of professionalizing the field? 

I prefer to think of adult basic education as part of the life-long education 
continuum that recognizes the importance of linking intimately with social 
service provision. In this sense, adult education is a right, not a 
charitable contribution to a marginalized population.

But I would like to hear what others think
Judy Titzel
World Education
Boston, MA

 
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