The effects of people education centers' literacy courses on participants' lives

Abstract

The aim of this study is to find out the effects of literacy acquisition on adults’ lives by exploring their background profiles, (e.g. their life history, their economic and social background, their demographic information like age, gender, marital status, etc.) literacy course experiences, and thoughts pertaining literacy’s effect. In order to find effects of literacy course, case study method was used and semi-structured interviews were carried with both Level 1 and Level 2 literacy course participants in Kadıköy People’s Education Center. Results of this study can be grouped in two categories. The first is participation process of adults and second is outcomes of literacy courses. Almost all participants had similar life histories which triggered them to looking for new solutions in order to cope with life. Age and psychological status of participants were especially powerful inputs in participation process. On the other hand, results that appeared after their participation in the courses all participants were able to travel, read and write in order to perform in their daily lives without having rely on others. Also, all participants in this study felt themselves more confident, improve their communication skills and develop sense of empowerment. The outcomes of this study underlined that literacy course must be separated according to age and psychological status of participants where needs and aims of participants differentiate. Moreover; strategies, aims, and methods of literacy education should be improved according to participants needs.