Training methodologies for adults with low achievements and educational qualifications

Abstract

This article proposes an analysis of training methodologies for adults with low educational qualifications. Indeed, a large part of the Portuguese active population has less than six years' schooling and thus demands specific training methodologies in order not to be excluded from the so-called knowledge-based economy. After proceeding to a critical evaluation of the cognitive training methods, we present, synthetically, some alternative methodologies based upon more promissory presuppositions. For that purpose, a broad review of the specialised French literature has been made from which the vocational didactics and ergonomy/training methodologies stand out as particularly interesting. In the research leading to this article, the team studied some innovative training cases, which adopted methodologies based on a strong link between training and work situations. The literature critical appraisal and the results of the case studies allowed us to formulate some methodological recommendations, that are liable to improve the quality and adaptation of the training actions directed towards lowly skilled adults to respect and support themselves in the graduating student experience; to proceed, systematically, with them to an analysis of their work activity; to dedicate the due attention to the role of ‘mediator’ in the training process; to certificate the training courses that are based on non-traditional pedagogic logics, among others