Some Perspectives On the Phenomenon of Participation

Abstract

This article explores the concept of participation from a number of perspectives and suggests some implications of these perspec tives for adult educators. The author suggests that in spite of the variety of definitions of participation, certain general properties of the concept can be delineated. These include the dimensions of individual-group, quantity, quality, and means-end. In reviewing selected research and theory on participation, special emphasis is given to two areas: 1. models of the motivational bases of participation, and 2. research which investigates the results of participation in decision-making. The author concludes by raising a number of questions about participation which have special significance for adult educators.