The Danish Folk High Schools:Development And Experience

Originated in Denmark in the 19th century, folk high schools have proved effective for adult education in many countries. As part and parcel of non-formal education, the Danish folk high schools have posed far-reaching influence on adult education, being the focus of many scholars even till now. N. F. S. Grundtvig, a famous Danish educator and the initiator of such concept, was honored as "a prophet of the North" and the father of the folk high schools. Given the great influence of his concept on the folk high schools, the European Union advanced the "Grundtvig Programme" at the dawn of this century, the very purpose of which is to strengthen the European dimension in adult education across Europe.The folk high schools were first established in the rural areas of Denmark against the complicated social and historical backdrop then and there, in order to restore the nation’s confidence, to arouse patriotism among its people, and to achieve unity of the country. Meanwhile, it was to inspire humanity and broaden the vision and outlook on life of the youths and adults for them to live a harmony life with other social members. On account of the domestic success of the Danish folk high schools, this concept has been adopted by some other European countries, especially in the Nordic region. On this basis, it is safe to say that the folk high schools are of significant value.According to the theory of embryology, nothing is permanent, and everything assumes a changing-determined existence. The Danish folk high schools, like other objects, have experienced unceasing development and improvement. The continued prevalence well demonstrates their rationality. Nowadays, China is encouraging lifelong learning and framing a learning-based society; therefore, it is of great benefit to draw experience from the Danish example.The paper mainly discusses four aspects of the Danish folk high schools:the establishment, development, experience and influence.Section One analyzes of historical and ideological context of the Danish folk high schools. A foundation can be laid to understand the concept and essence of the Danish folk high schools after the exploration of their historical origin.Section Two reviews the profile of the development of the Danish folk high schools. A case study on the International People’s College (IPC) is introduced to demonstrate the educational philosophy, course design, teaching style, and source of funding of the Danish folk high schools.Section Three investigates, based on the above discussions, the reasons why the Danish folk high schools are still popular today.Section Four lays a detailed analysis of the influence of the Danish folk high schools on Denmark, Northern European countries and other regions—China in particular.