FEATURES OF THE CREATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF UNIVERSITY EXTENSION IN ENGLAND AND THE USA AT THE END OF THE 19TH - BEGINNING OF THE 20TH CENTURY

At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, the world faced unprecedented changes driven by the rapid development of technology, industrialization, and growing urbanization. Technological progress impacted all aspects of life, particularly the social structure, economy, and culture. Millions of people moved to cities in search of new jobs, where new work opportunities were available, but they also encountered challenges associated with rapid industrial development. Along with these changes arose the need for new forms of education that could meet the demands of both individuals and entire communities. In response to this demand, the University Extension movement emerged in Great Britain and the United States. Its goal was to overcome the limitations of traditional university education and make scientific knowledge accessible to people. This article explores the historical context of the emergence and development of the University Extension movement in England and the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It examines the social and economic conditions that contributed to the formation of this movement and the impact it had on adult education development. In particular, key aspects of the movement are analyzed, including how it contributed to increasing access to higher education for people from different social backgrounds and how it influenced the rise of social mobility in society. The study's conclusions indicate that different social and economic conditions, educational systems, and cultural characteristics in England and the United States were decisive factors in shaping the differences in the development of the university extension concept in these countries. The article also highlights the role of University Extension in promoting educational innovations. Thanks to this movement, new teaching approaches emerged, which gradually transformed the higher education system, making it more flexible and adaptable to society's needs. Today, the ideas laid down by the University Extension movement continue to evolve, taking on new forms. Thus, the article not only explores the history of this educational movement but also emphasizes its relevance in the modern world, where access to education remains a crucial issue.