Adult education and lifelong learning in context: adult educators with a focus on learning support educators in Malta

Abstract

Adult education and lifelong learning are increasingly vital in addressing learners’ diverse needs, especially in Malta. This dissertation explores the roles, challenges, and professional development needs of Learning Support Educators (LSEs) as key facilitators of inclusive adult learning. This research emphasises LSEs’ roles in enhancing adult education, fostering inclusivity, autonomy, and personalised support, while integrating adult education within Malta’s commitment to a culture of continuous learning and lifelong development. The study aims to explore LSEs’ experiences and perceptions of professional growth in adult education and to answer three research questions: How do LSEs perceive the effectiveness of adult education systems and institutional support for professional development? What challenges do LSEs in Malta face in facilitating adult education and lifelong learning? What factors hinder or sustain their engagement in further adult education? Participants included ten LSEs from Malta, selected through purposive sampling to ensure diverse representation. A mixed methods design combined interviews and an online survey distributed through the two major Unions for Educators Trade Unions, yielding 209 responses. The study highlights the need for stronger institutional support and structured professional development pathways, despite barriers like time, finances, and confidence, and emphasises the effectiveness of flexible scheduling and ongoing support.