Study Circle for local development: lifelong oriented models and operators’ competences in the cross border area Italy- Slovenia

Abstract

The paper analyses the model of study circle, not as a learning action in adult education but in its being an action of design able to put together different local partners for the construction of responses related with learning needs identified. The device of Study Circle is analysed as a model that has the potentiality to promote and develop social networks for local education. So, it is outlined the possibility that Study Circles may represent a mechanism for the establishment of local institutional spaces for continuing education: in terms of needs’ evaluation, planning and management of the education system, until evaluation. The paper develops its reflection by starting from a methodological model in order to subsequently define an AE prototype as an integrated lifelong learning system. The Authors focus on the role of tutors/mentors and thus reflect on their competencies. After a description of the theoretical framework, the Authors present an interesting pilot activity conducted in the cross-border area between Italy and Slovenia, and concerning Study Circles for the development of human resources and cooperation networks.