SOLIDAR+ PEDAGOGICAL APPROACHES in NON-FORMAL EDUCATION
This policy pill presents an overview of the main pedagogical approaches used by SOLIDAR+ members in the field of non-formal education (NFE). It aims to map how different members conceptualise and implement learning processes to promote democratic participation, social justice, inclusive societies and more. It also aims to offer more visibility to these approaches by ensuring access to a broader audience.
SOLIDAR+ and its members refer to Non-formal education (NFE) as organised, intentional, and structured learning that takes place outside formal education systems. It serves as an addition, alternative, or complement to formal education within lifelong learning processes and approaches, and often focuses on personal and social development, as well as the acquisition of skills and competences.
This document brings together a diversity of approaches, including transformative learning, popular education, experiential and problem-based learning, study circles, competency-based learning, and artistic and civic education. While these approaches are rooted in different backgrounds and contexts, they share common principles such as participation, critical reflection, and the empowerment of learners as active agents of change.
By structuring and comparing these approaches, the document seeks to support peer-learning among members and provide a clearer understanding of the pedagogical foundations underpinning their work.
Methodology
The content of this document is based on the inputs collected from SOLIDAR+ members through a survey. Member Organisations were invited to describe the main pedagogical approaches used in their non-formal education activities, including their definition, objectives, target groups, materials, advantages, and challenges.
In the following document, where relevant, similar approaches were grouped or merged to avoid duplication and highlight common practices such as Study Circles. The table below provides an overview of pedagogical approaches used by SOLIDAR+ members, highlighting their key features, educational objectives, and implementation practices.
Member Organisations that contributed to this Library:
- Centre for Peace Studies
- Institute for Social Integration
- Ceméa
- Center for Labour Rights
- International Federation of Workers’ Education Associations
- Arbetarnas Bildningsförbund
- La Liga Española de la Educación de Utilidad Pública
- La Ligue de l’enseignement
- Asamblea de Cooperación por la Paz
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