Bridging perspectives of adult literacy...

In this paper, we focus on a participatory research project in adult literacy education in Austria. The research team consists of adult education professionals (three literacy providers), adult literacy learners and university-based adult education researchers. We will give an overview of our theoretical background (Transformative Learning Theory) and our participatory research approach (methodological and empirical framework) and look at the following questions: How can adult literacy education make social and cultural empowerment (Freire, 2007) possible and a reality? Can transformation and change in individuals, societies, communities of practice and research be a result of participatory research? What kind of impact can participatory research as trigger for transformative learning (sensu Mezirow) have on all learners (adult literacy learners, adult education professionals/providers and university-based adult education researchers), learning environments and learning processes? Finally, can participatory research serve as a resource for advancement in adult literacy education?