The new research report launched this morning at Parliament Buildings, Stormont, reveals the impact of adult education in Northern Ireland and the value of measuring it. The report ‘Measuring the Impact of Adult Education in Northern Ireland: Current Practice and Ways Forward’ explores the current data being collected primarily by Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisations in Northern Ireland, how it is being collected, and why impact measurement is crucial within the sector. The report sheds light on how current measurement practices often fail to capture the full scope of the impact of adult education, particularly in non-formal education.
The Alliance for Lifelong Learning was commissioned by the Department for the Economy to conduct the research, which was carried out by Alliance members AONTAS (the National Adult Learning Organisation of Ireland) and the Forum for Adult Learning Northern Ireland (FALNI).
This research was driven by findings from the Northern Ireland Community Education Census (2021-2022), which was carried out by AONTAS, and it showed that adult learning in Northern Ireland is mainly focused on 'counting outputs' and doesn't fully capture its overall impact.
Speaking at the launch today, Minister for the Economy Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA, said, “Education can make a huge contribution to personal development, improving our skills base, raising productivity and equipping people to take up good jobs, in line with my economic priorities. I welcome this hugely valuable research and look forward to continuing to work collaboratively to support and promote adult education in all its forms.”
Key recommendations from the research – which was informed by engagement with providers and funders of adult learning, as well as learners themselves – include creating a space where adult learners’ voices can be heard and included in decision-making in Northern Ireland, improved alignment between funders and education providers to meet their needs, and better ways of working together to improve impact measurement.
Discussing these recommendations today, John D’Arcy, Director of The Open University in Ireland and Chair of the Alliance for Lifelong Learning, said "Lifelong learning has the power to transform lives, strengthen communities, and drive economic growth. As we launch this important research into the impact of adult learning in Northern Ireland, we aim to shine a light on how education can unlock new opportunities, improve wellbeing, and support people through life’s challenges. This research will provide crucial insights to shape future policy and ensure that everyone, regardless of age or background, has access to the skills and knowledge they need to thrive."
Mr. Phillip Brett MLA, Chairman of the Economy Committee, welcomed the launch of the report, thanking the Alliance for Lifelong Learning for their expertise, “This Report highlights the tangible, real-life impact of adult learning participation. As a region, we lag behind others in levels of participation which must be addressed by giving education providers the resources they need to expand adult learning and develop a framework for greater collaboration across this diverse sector."
You can read the full report here.
