Critical thinking in adult literacy education: The perceptions and practices of adult educators

The aim of this study is to examine the perceptions and practices of adult literacy educators in terms of critical thinking in adult literacy education. 11 participants from 2 public education centers in Istanbul were interviewed based on a phenomenological research design. Content analysis was conducted to analyze the data. The findings revealed that the educators regarded socialization as the main purpose of the courses. The educators reported that the literacy courses help the learners develop self-sufficiency, independence and confidence by teaching them new knowledge and skills, contributing to their socialization by engaging in adopting to society more extensively. The educators also reported that they find it important to develop critical thinking in the adult learners. Even though the educators commented on the relationship between critical thinking and adult literacy education, none of them provided a clear and comprehensive definition of critical thinking. Even the educators who reported more radical views on the role and impact of the courses were unable to support these arguments with clearly articulated statements and examples. The educators were unable to mention teaching methods and activities other than discussion and using specific materials such as reading books and writing letters for developing critical thinking in adult learners. This study has a practical value in that it may provide insights to adult educators to reflect on the purposes of adult education from a more transformative perspective based on critical thinking. This study may also provide a contribution to both national and international literature since there is a lack of research focusing on the role and significance of critical thinking in adult education.