ADULT AND NON-FORMAL EDUCATION (PGD 721) Assignment

 

NATIONAL TEACHERS’ INSTITUTE, KADUNA

 

COURSE TITLE: ADULT AND NON-FORMAL EDUCATION

COURSE CODE: (PGD 721)

 

PRESENTED

 By

 

 SALAU RAHEEM

REGISTRATION NO: NTI/PGDE/2025/0300

PHONE: NUMBER: 07039762488

 

LEVEL 1, SECOND SEMESTER

COURSE OF STUDY: POST GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN EDUCATION  

SEPTEMBER, 2025


 

Assignment (Ass:)

1a.       Define adult education in your own words.

1b.       Briefly distinguish between formal, non-formal, and informal education.

2a.       Discuss at least three methods used in traditional adult education.

2b.       Explain the most important contribution of Shehu Usman dan Fodio in Nigeria.

3.         Discuss the role of the government in financing and equipping non-formal education in Nigeria.

 

ANSWER TO THE QUESTIONS

1a.       Definition of Adult Education

Adult education refers to any form of learning activity or program designed for adults who wish to acquire new knowledge, develop skills, or improve their level of education. It provides a second chance for individuals who missed formal schooling during their childhood or who want to continue learning later in life. Adult education aims to help people read and write (basic literacy), learn vocational or professional skills, and become more productive citizens. It plays a vital role in national development by reducing illiteracy, improving job performance, and promoting community participation.

 

1b.       Distinction between Formal, Non-formal, and Informal Education

Education can be classified into three main types: Formal, Non-formal, and Informal education.


Formal education is the structured type of learning that takes place in organized institutions like schools, colleges, and universities. It follows a planned curriculum, uses trained teachers, and ends with certificates or qualifications such as diplomas or degrees. For example, the education children receive in primary or secondary school is formal education.

Examples include:

1.      Primary school education

2.      Secondary school education

3.      University or polytechnic programs

4.      Technical colleges

5.      Teachers’ training colleges

Non-formal education, on the other hand, refers to organized learning activities outside the formal school system. It is flexible and often targets specific groups such as adults, artisans, or workers who want to gain literacy, technical, or vocational skills. Examples include adult literacy programs, evening classes, and vocational training centers.

Examples include:

1.      Adult literacy classes

2.      Evening or weekend classes

3.      Vocational training centers

4.      Apprenticeship programs

5.      Community development workshops

 

Informal education is the type of learning that happens naturally in daily life through family, work, social interaction, media, or personal experiences. It does not follow a set timetable or curriculum and does not usually lead to certification. For instance, a person may learn how to farm, cook, or speak a language by observing others or through practice.

Examples include:

1.      Learning to cook from parents

2.      Learning a language by listening

3.      Gaining farming knowledge from elders

4.      Watching videos to learn a skill

5.      Learning moral lessons through stories or songs

 

2a.       Methods Used in Traditional Adult Education

Before the introduction of Western education, traditional African societies had their own ways of teaching adults important knowledge and values. These methods were practical and community-based. One common method was apprenticeship, where adults learned trades or crafts by working under skilled masters, such as blacksmiths, carpenters, or weavers. Another method was storytelling, which was used to pass on history, moral lessons, and cultural values from one generation to another. Observation and imitation also played a big role, as adults learned by watching others perform certain tasks and then practicing them. In addition, participation in festivals, ceremonies, and communal activities helped adults learn leadership, discipline, and cooperation. Finally, group discussions and councils were used to educate adults about community decisions, laws, and traditions. These methods made learning continuous and relevant to everyday life.

 

Five major methods of traditional adult education are:

1.      Apprenticeship: Adults learned trades such as blacksmithing, carpentry, weaving, and pottery by working under a master craftsman.

2.      Storytelling: Elders told stories that passed moral lessons, history, and cultural values to younger adults.

3.      Observation and Imitation: Adults learned by watching others perform tasks like hunting, farming, or cooking, and then practicing them.

4.      Participation in Ceremonies and Festivals: During traditional events, adults learned leadership roles, customs, and community values.

5.      Group Discussions and Councils: Village meetings were used to teach decision-making, conflict resolution, and social responsibility.

These methods ensured that adults learned important life skills and moral values needed for responsible living in their communities.

2b.       The Most Important Contribution of Shehu Usman dan Fodio in Nigeria

Shehu Usman dan Fodio was a great Islamic scholar, teacher, and reformer who made significant contributions to education in Nigeria, especially in the northern region. His most important contribution was the promotion of Islamic education and literacy among both men and women. He established Quranic schools that taught not only religion but also reading, writing, and moral discipline. He believed that education should be for all, regardless of gender, and encouraged his daughter, Nana Asma’u, to educate women. This movement helped spread knowledge, reduced ignorance, and strengthened moral values in society. Through his leadership, Shehu Usman dan Fodio inspired a culture of learning that continues to influence northern Nigeria today.

Five important contributions include:

1.      Promotion of Islamic Education: He encouraged learning based on Islamic principles and established Quranic schools.

2.      Literacy Development: He taught reading and writing in Arabic and promoted knowledge among the people.

3.      Encouragement of Female Education: He supported women’s education and inspired his daughter, Nana Asma’u, to teach other women.

4.      Establishment of Educational Centers: He built schools and centers that spread across northern Nigeria.

5.      Moral and Religious Reformation: He emphasized discipline, honesty, and justice through education.

His movement led to the spread of literacy, morality, and social development across the Hausa and Fulani regions.

3.         The Role of Government in Financing and Equipping Non-Formal Education in Nigeria

The Nigerian government plays an important role in promoting and supporting non-formal education. One of its key roles is financing educational programs such as adult literacy and skill-acquisition centers. The government allocates funds through agencies like the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC). Another important role is policy formulation, where the government creates guidelines and plans to ensure that adult education is available, affordable, and effective.

The government also provides facilities and learning materials, such as classrooms, chairs, textbooks, and teaching aids, to enhance the learning process. Additionally, it supports the training and employment of qualified adult educators, who are equipped to handle the unique learning needs of adults. Finally, the government often partners with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international agencies to implement literacy campaigns and community-based education projects. Through these efforts, the government helps to reduce illiteracy, improve employability, and promote lifelong learning across the country.

Five key roles include:

1.      Funding and Budget Allocation: The government provides money for adult literacy centers and vocational training programs through agencies like NMEC (National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education).

2.      Policy Formulation: It creates policies that guide how adult education is organized and managed across the country.

3.      Provision of Facilities and Equipment: The government builds learning centers and provides materials such as books, chairs, and writing tools.

4.      Training of Instructors: It trains and employs adult educators to teach effectively.

5.      Partnership with NGOs and Agencies: The government collaborates with NGOs, UNESCO, and community-based organizations to run literacy campaigns and education programs.

Through these roles, the government ensures that education is accessible to everyone, promoting lifelong learning and national development.

 

 

 

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