Mission

The Department of Adult and Community Education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania prepares adult and community educators to assume positions of leadership in their professions, workplaces, communities, and society by providing learning experiences which incorporate excellent academic courses, individual attention, practical application of theory, and opportunities for research.

The Department of Adult and Community Education offers academic preparation for careers in adult education, community education, and technology-intensive education and training programs through its two graduate tracks:  

• The Master of Arts in Adult and Community Education 
• The Master of Arts in Adult Education and Communications Technology.

Adult and community education is an applied science based on an interdisciplinary approach.  Elements from a broad array of disciplines, such as psychology, sociology, management, education, and communications, are brought to bear on the issues of helping adults learn.  There are three broad areas which are incorporated into the curricula of the two tracks:

Adult education, broadly defined, is a field of theory and practice dedicated to helping adults learn.  Adult learning takes place in a wide variety of arenas, including higher education, basic and literacy education, health care and patient education, business and industry, government, community and social agencies, corrections facilities, and religious institutions.

Community education is the study of educational activities that contribute to the growth and development of communities.  Examples of community education include recreation programs, community health programs, economic development, community action groups, and community development.

Communications technology is the application of current and emerging technologies to support and enhance the educational process.  Examples of technologies addressed in the curriculum include computer-based instruction; the internet; distance education technologies, including the use of computers and audio and video conferencing; and video and slide production.

Students in the two tracks come from many different backgrounds.  The students can be described as falling on a continuum from younger students right out of undergraduate programs to more experienced students with many years of professional practice.  Students from all age groups benefit from the ideas, experiences, and views of their fellow students.  In addition to students representing many different races and ethnic groups, we also have a good representation of international students.  We believe that the mix of so many different kinds of people provides a rich experience for both the faculty and the students and enhances the educational process for all.

The education of professionals able to assume leadership roles implies the development of many different personal as well as professional qualities.  Professional preparation for students is realized as they develop:

• Specialized knowledge of the literature, research, theories, and practical applications of adult and community education and communications technologies.

• A broad knowledge of the research, theories, and practice in supporting disciplines.

• Specific skills to enhance performance as an adult and community educator.

• The ability to reflect critically on and learn from one’s professional and  personal practices.

• The ability to understand, conceptualize, and conduct research.

• A commitment to their professions and professional organizations.