Adult education systems in Turkey and Greece: A comparative study

In this study, the adult education systems of Turkey and Greece were examined and their similarities and differences were tried to be determined. Some basic concepts and approaches related to adult education are mentioned, historical development stages, legal bases, aims and targets, financial resources, adult education practices and participation rates of adult education systems are compared, comments are made and suggestions are made. This study is a comparative education research. In the research, document analysis technique based on qualitative research model was used. The data were collected in accordance with this technique, and the data obtained within the framework of the research questions were analyzed with the descriptive analysis technique. As a result of the research; In terms of the historical development of adult education systems, it has been found that Turkey has an older background, most of the financing of adult education is provided by the state in both countries, and Greece benefits more from European Union funds when compared to Turkey. It has been found that adult education practices are predominantly financed and carried out by the public sector in both countries, the types of practices are significantly similar in both countries, and these practices are predominantly for vocational education. While the practices are realized through the institutions under the Ministry of National Education in Turkey, it has been determined that most of the practices in Greece are carried out by the institutions under the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs. Adult education participation rates are quite low in both countries compared to the European Union average. In both countries, it is recommended to exchange views and cooperate in order to increase access to adult education opportunities, increase public resources, provide more support and incentives to local units, and benefit from the knowledge and experience of both countries.