| 2.
Vision |
| 2.1 Our
vision for Scotland is of a dynamic learning society. A
democratic and socially just society should enable all of
its citizens, in particular those who are socially
excluded, to develop their potential to the full and to
have the capacity, individually and collectively, to meet
the challenge of change. The learning society will
provide an active and informed citizenship. |
| 2.2
Community education is a key contributor to lifelong
learning and plays a significant part in combating social
exclusion. Through its commitment to learning as an agent
for change, it supports the Scottish people to improve
personal, community, social and economic well-being.
Primarily community education is more a way of working
than a sector of education. Its unique contribution is to
create learning opportunities within and for communities. |
| 2.3
Community based learning opportunities for all ages are
as important to the realisation of our vision as schools,
colleges and universities. The whole of the education
system, other public services and the voluntary and
private sectors require to collaborate to realise it. |
| 2.4 The
capacity of individuals and groups of all ages to
participate in developing their own learning is crucial
to improving their quality of life. Through learning,
people can come to make a real contribution to their own
communities and participate in local and national
democratic processes. Through learning, people can build
the confidence and capacity to tackle wider social and
economic issues, such as health or community safety.
Skills can be acquired at many levels which are
applicable in any walk of life. Sometimes these are
essential skills, such as literacy or basic life
management, which those who have benefited most from the
formal education system take for granted. Without them,
social exclusion is much more likely. With them, people
can increase the opportunities for moving into further
and higher education and into employment. Through them,
local people can develop productive partnerships with
other agencies relating to a wide range of social,
economic and health as well as educational needs. |
| 2.5 For
both individuals and communities, the results of
community education can be tangible and lasting. That is
what makes it a subject of critical national importance. |
