Adult education, women and leadership. Comparative research between Spanish and Mexican women in education.

Abstract

Gender equity and the promotion of female leadership are key issues in the field of adult and continuing education. This study aims to analyse disparities and similarities in order to investigate differences in participation in adult education programmes, access to leadership roles and perceptions of leadership among women in Spain and Mexico. A mixed approach was employed involving focus groups and individual interviews with a total of 100 women enrolled in a university master's degree in various disciplines, 50 of Spanish nationality and 50 of Mexican nationality. The results of the interviews with Spanish and Mexican participants reveal the diversity of approaches and needs in relation to leadership training and specific skills in university programmes within the field of adult education. The integration of such skills in adult education programmes, together with collaboration in initiatives such as the Global Observatory mentioned above, will contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable educational environment adapted to the changing demands of today's society. 

Keywords: leadership, women, education, competences.