ABSTRACT
Since the late 1950s the training of adult educators has been continuously discussed in Norway. This is closely related to the rapid expansion of the field in the post-war period. The history of Norwegian adult education is closely linked with popular movements dating back until the twentieth century. The developments, leading up to the Adult Education Act, were highly influenced by the voluntary organisations; they were in fact the most ardent supporters of the proposed law. A committee to work out a proposal for an act of adult education was appointed in 1970; the Ministry's proposition was presented to the Storting in 1975 and became law in 1976. The first opportunity for training of a professional character was established in 1970 at Oslo University, where certificates have been awarded since 1981. Until then activities in this area had mostly been limited to short courses for part-time workers with teaching functions, mainly in the voluntary organisations.
