| Abstract [eng] |
The concept of lifelong learning (LLL) is becoming increasingly significant in contemporary society; however, the profession of the andragogue, despite its importance in ensuring high-quality adult education, remains insufficiently defined and poorly regulated. The aim of this thesis is to investigate how experts in non-formal adult education and practicing andragogues understand the professional identity of an andragogue and how they perceive the potential future prospects of the profession in Lithuania. The study employed a scientific literature review, while a reflexive thematic analysis strategy was chosen for the empirical research. The research findings revealed that the participants (experts and andragogues working in the field of non-formal adult education) were unable to precisely define who an andragogue is and what constitutes their professional identity. Participants indicated that it is difficult to define the concept of the andragogue profession, making the definition of professional identity even more challenging. The participants emphasized that the profession of the andragogue should be more clearly defined; however, this requires systematic decisions and regulation, otherwise the profession will continue to remain “on the margins.” The majority of the research participants expressed the expectation that in the future the profession of the andragogue would become officially recognized and fully established in comparison with other professions. Nevertheless, the findings do not suggest that such changes are likely to occur in the near future. Experts and andragogues further emphasized the need for greater responsibility from governmental institutions. It is expected that the training and preparation of andragogues will be more clearly defined in the future. Future perspectives also highlight the importance of technological development, generational differences among adult learners, and increasing individualism, all of which are expected to influence the profession of the andragogue. |
