Netherlands

Adult Education: Adult education provides a foundation for vocational and secondary education courses and to help adults become productive, participating members of society. Courses are offered in broad basic education and adult general secondary education (VAVO) to give adults a second chance to obtain MAVO, HAVO or VWO qualifications. Dutch as a second language courses are designed to bring language skills of non-native speakers to an acceptable level. Newcomers to the Netherlands are required legally to attend a social integration program at a Regional Training Center, to receive not only Dutch language lessons but also training to help them cope with the Dutch way of life. In 1998-1999, there were 203,800 adults enrolled in adult education courses.

Open University: The Open University in Heerlen is a public institution offering open higher education distance learning courses for people aged eighteen and over. No certificates are required for admission, and all course work can be individually paced. Courses are offered in law, social sciences, arts subjects, economics, management and administrative science, engineering sciences and natural sciences. The courses are taught as separate modules, creating flexibility for students who can combine them to create their own program of study. It is also possible to study for a complete HBO or university degree through the Open University. Study centers throughout the Netherlands help provide assistance and advice for students. The Open University also works with other higher education institutions on developing joint teaching materials and new methods of teaching.