Abstract

SALINAS AMESCUA, Bertha et al. The meaningful use of technology in adult education in a Rural setting: Results of the Pilot Application of a Model. RMIE [online]. 2006, vol.11, n.28, pp.31-60. ISSN 1405-6666.

Taking into account the massive installation of technological centers in marginal communities in Mexico’s adult education system, the starting point for this article is the disintegration of technology, learning and rural problems. A description is provided of a model for the meaningful use of technology and real access for young people, adults and natural groups, assuming a constructivist sociocultural posture and principles of popular education. Emphasis is placed on the empirical results of the pilot application of the methodological strategy of the model, at four “community plazas”, through active research and qualitative techniques of recording experiences. The article describes and discusses three trends for applying technology that were generated by 103 participants for developing relevant life projects; their relation with expected objectives; and some emergent findings.

Keywords : information technologies; adult education; rural setting; cognitive processes; problema solving; Mexico.