New research shows 64% of people surveyed gained more self-confidence through engaging in adult learning in Ireland in the last year. 58% gained a more positive outlook on the future, while 31% had an increased sense of belonging, and better health and well-being.
That’s according to AONTAS, the national adult learning organization, who launched a research report on Thursday, October 17, during Mental Health Month. The ‘Learner Voices Across Ireland’ 2024 report draws on over 1,716 contributions from adult learners who have engaged in Further Education and Training (FET) courses or programmes across Ireland in the past academic year. These learners have come together at events around the country as part of AONTAS’ ongoing large-scale learner voice project, the National FET Learner Forum.
‘FORMING FRIENDSHIPS’
These striking findings of the positive impact of adult learning on people’s mental health come during Mental Health Month. According to the Department of Health, this month provides opportunities to raise awareness of mental health and promote the services and supports available to people in communities across the country.
The research reveals that adult learning promotes well-being and supports people to develop a more positive outlook on the future. As one adult learner quoted in the report stated: “It’s meeting people, it’s interaction, it’s forming friendships. For me, it’s very social. For a lot of us, it’s our main outlet.”
Speaking at the launch of the report in Athlone adult learner, Blessing Ebeledike said that adult education had been “a window that has opened loads of closed doors” in her life.
“When I first started, I was a closed person and couldn’t communicate very well, but at the ETB they were very welcoming to me. I now see that I have a purpose in life and lots of opportunities,” she said.
The report draws on learners’ expressed views, needs, and proposals to outline a series of recommendations to improve Further Education and Training. Two key proposals related to furthering the positive impact of FET for adult learners are:
1) To enhance buildings and facilities to ensure accessibility for all learners and to ensure provision of canteen facilities and social spaces;
2) To increase the provision of social and community-building events outside of class time.
TRANSPORT & ACCOMMODATION PROBLEMATIC
The report finds that 90% of participants expressed satisfaction with guidance and advice when first contacting an Education and Training Board (ETB) or FET centre, and that 95% of learners said they felt respected by tutors and centre staff.
The availability of public transport was the lowest area of satisfaction recorded among learners (37%). As many learners consistently reported to the forum, transport options to attend their course are too often unavailable, unreliable, or unaffordable.
Another area for improvement is accommodation, with 24% stating that their living situation affects their ability to learn. This rises to 51% for people in Direct Provision and 45% for people with a long-term illness or disability.
