Cultural heritage preservation in the cross-section of andragogy and cultural anthropology

Abstract

Our research focused on the links between non-formal education in a local environment and the practice of cultural heritage preservation. The case study was conducted in Piran, a Mediterranean town known for its multicultural character and migrations. Qualitative research methods were used to analyze the educational activities in 28 study circles in the period 2003–2011 in the context of the association Anbot (Once). The results show efficacy of non-formal education in the field of cultural heritage preservation. The members of study circles have managed to preserve many artifacts and social practices in the domain of cultural heritage by linking professional knowledge and voluntary work. It was also observed that the educational practice fostered the feeling of local identity and belonging.