Resumo

AVILA, Alicia. Among self-directed learning, solidarity and certification: Study processes of Mathematics in four community halls of the INEA. Perfiles educativos [online]. 2013, vol.35, n.142, pp.75-88. ISSN 0185-2698.

By way of an empirical study, the author investigated the study procedures of the Mathematics courses in four community halls coordinated by the Instituto Nacional para la Educación de los Adultos (National Institute for Adult Education-INEA). The Education for Life and Work model is the guiding framework for the actions taken, though in reality, the mathematics activities are guided by an 'institutional didactic contract,' providing certification for the said activities and guiding the course content towards the objective of examinations and accreditation. The study process leading to the certification is based on self-directed learning and social solidarity. The investigation shows that certification -together with personal goals- reorient the formal institutional objectives, thus affecting the study of mathematics, already impoverished by the two pillars that constitute their livelihood.

Palavras-chave : Basic education; Mathematics education; Institutional teaching contract; Self-directed learning; Youths and adults Educational practices; Certification processes.