Adult learners in Mayo call for equal access to 'overwhelmingly positive' educational experiences

Adult learners of all ages from Mayo have reported overwhelmingly positive experiences of further education and training, but AONTAS’ new Learners’ Voices Across Ireland report also reveals regional disparities in learning experiences due to inequalities in public transport, facilities, and inclusion and mental health supports.

The annual research report on adult learning in Ireland was launched at the AONTAS Adult Education Summit at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin, this month.

During the 2022/23 academic term, over 3,000 further education and training (FET) learners participated in focus groups and online surveys nationwide. Their experiences are shared with the Education and Training Board (ETB) to inform good practices and to ensure that learners have a say in their own education.

Addressing 200 delegates at AONTAS’ A Window to the World summit, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris, said: “The power of adult learning, especially community education, cannot be underestimated in its potential to transform people’s lives. The theme of today, ‘A Window to the World’, is a reminder of how adult education and lifelong learning is a crucial part of improving communities and making them more resilient.

“The Learners’ Voices Across Ireland report is an important research project which gives learners of all ages, backgrounds and areas of FET the opportunity to share their experiences and recommendations in a solutions-focused way.

“No matter who you are or where you’re from, I’m committed to making sure there is access to the educational opportunity that you desire.”

Also speaking at the event, CEO of AONTAS, Dearbháil Lawless, stated: “There are two principal narratives emerging from this year’s report – that education has a hugely transformative impact on learners’ lives, particularly those returning to education later in life, and that issues around local infrastructure and facilities are creating inequalities and barriers for learners across the country to access, or take full advantage of, those transformative experiences.

“For many people in Mayo, particularly those from under-resourced communities and groups that face the greatest challenges in accessing quality education, crossing the threshold of a college or training centre is a huge step, and for many even getting to the front door is proving to be the biggest barrier.

“Without affordable, reliable public transport, people in rural areas and people living in poverty continue to be at a disadvantage in accessing education and training opportunities.”

In addition to public transport, learners also highlighted a need for improvement in language supports, accessibility aids, and onsite facilities such as parking, heating and canteens.

Most commonly reported by adult learners across Ireland were the positive impacts that learning experiences and environments had on their personal health, relationships and prospects.

Examples of good practice highlighted included: tutors – learners acknowledged the quality of education, care and support provided by tutors, who were fundamental in building their confidence;

atmosphere – learners reported respectful treatment and positive experiences in FET environments; and personal benefits – learners reported significant improvements in self-confidence, new friendships, and a stronger sense of community, purpose and identity.