An International Comparative Study on the Participation of University Degree Holders in Adult Education

Features and Issues Based on the Survey of Adult Skills

Abstract

　 Several reports for the Survey of Adult Skills(PIAAC) report that adults in Japan are less active in participating in adult education compared at the international level. Specifically, this study focuses on adults with bachelor’s or master’s degree as the highest educational qualification. It aims to elucidate the features and issues regarding their participation in adult education and training compared at the international level. The study employed data mainly from the background questions of the survey.

　 In conclusion, the results demonstrate a positive difference between the participation of bachelor- and masteral degree holders in Japan. In addition, among bachelor-level degree holders, females participate less in adult education and training compared with males, despite their high learning strategy and proficiency in key skills. These are likely to be issues particular to Japan, which differs from those of other countries with high participation rates in adult education.