Wednesday, 13.08.2008
AONTAS: Keeping Adult and Community Education on the Political Agenda
In Ireland, over 300,000 adults take on the tough challenge of returning to some form of education each year. For many adult learners, the challenge may not just be about hitting the books after years outside of the formal education system, but is further complicated by the pressures of juggling family responsibilities, and a busy job with classes, study and assignments. In addition the financial burden can often put off any adult thinking of returning to learn.
These are some of the concerns of AONTAS – the National Adult Learning Organisation, which was established in 1969. AONTAS is a non-governmental membership organisation which brings together individuals and organisations to progress some of the common issues facing adult learners. AONTAS promotes adult and community education, and believes that all adults should have access to education at whatever stage of their life they choose. Furthermore, education is not something that has to take place within a formal setting. ‘Technology and the development of outreach means that there are now numerous options for someone who wants to go back to learn’ explained AONTAS Director Berni Brady. For example, you might want to take a course at your local community centre, which may also offer you access to childcare facilities, and give you the opportunity to meet new people. Or, you may prefer to avail of a distance learning option offered by a university, which you can access in the comfort of your own home.’
Why adult learning is important
Ireland’s participation in lifelong learning is poor in comparison with other European countries. In 2004, 7% of Irish adults took part in lifelong learning initiatives. This compares with an EU average of 10% and 25% in the UK. The government has responded through a recent focus on upskilling, and the establishment of a new Interdepartmental Committee to progress the National Skills Strategy. Asides from the economic advantages which increased investment in adult education will bring, the individual benefits to participating in learning have been widely documented – from learning a new skill, to increased confidence. Furthermore, participation in adult learning gives people the skills to critically analyse the world around them, and assist them to cope with change. (Learning for Life 2000 – Government White Paper) Adult learning also builds communities –AONTAS has come across numerous case studies of adult learning projects around the country which give people access to parental support, give recovering addicts a second chance at their education, and enable newcomers in Ireland to integrate and get familiar with their new situation.
Promoting Adult and Community Education
AONTAS main activities involve promoting adult and community education, and to influence government policy in order to improve the situation for adult learners. AONTAS does this through research and by engaging an active membership and learners themselves, to identify the issues particular to adult learners and to support activities which progress action on them. AONTAS Learner Networks bring adult learners together, encourage them to share information and experience, and identify the barriers they face. AONTAS also operates an information referral service which can help you with any queries you might have.
A recent initiative of AONTAS is the Adult Learners’ Festival – an annual event which celebrates learning and which will take place for the third year from February 2nd to 6th 2009. A highlight of the week is the STAR Awards Ceremony for adult learning projects. AONTAS invites individuals or organisations to nominate projects which they think should receive an award before November 14th this year. Over the course of the festival, groups all around the country will organise events designed to encourage people to go back to learn.
Policy Issues
A current policy issue for AONTAS is the Back to Education Allowance. Currently, criteria for the scheme allow people on social welfare payments financial support for their education as well as access to other grants such as the Top Up Grant. Meanwhile, those in low paid, low skilled jobs who want to improve their skills or get a qualification are often forced into debt in order to finance their education as they do not qualify for the scheme.
AONTAS has identified finance as the major obstacle for adults wanting to go back to learn. Part time undergraduate or postgraduate courses which are often the most viable option for adults involve substantial fee payments, and over the past year AONTAS has highlighted this as an issue for government and policy makers. Furthermore AONTAS advocates for increased childcare support, as well as additional resources for adult guidance services, both of which are badly needed, particularly by disadvantaged groups in society.
AONTAS will continue to monitor and respond to government policy affecting adult learners over the coming years, but especially immediately in the lead up to Budget 2009 and the Local and European elections. If you are an adult learner, or thinking about returning to learn, contact AONTAS on 01 406 8220, visit our websites www.aontas.com or www.adultlearnersfestival.com, or email mail@aontas.com.
- Funding Options
- Leaving Cert Adult Education Options
- Links & Resources
- Outreach Centres
- Paying Your Way
- What Your VEC Can Do For You
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