Introduction

This chapter utilizes the concept of non-formal education (NFE) to analyze the spectrum and dynamics among various forms, practices, and politics of education in its context and position. When education is developed outside an education system, it is generally called “non-formal education,” while education tends to mean “going to school” in much of the literature and in people’s mindsets. The typical examples of NFE are classrooms organized by non-governmental organizations in remote areas in developing countries and popular education managed voluntarily by civil groups with public support in developed countries. To clarify the double meanings of “non-formal” education, H. Maruyama and M. Ohta set another axis vertically for authorization analysis because discussions about non-formal education often mix (un)standardized and (un)authorized education. The chapter discusses the needs for overcoming preset research areas in education, which mainly focus on schools. By reviewing what education should be ensured, should recognize the dynamic relationships among cultures.