Young adults describe how demand for learning can be increased

Citation

(2003), "Young adults describe how demand for learning can be increased", Education + Training, Vol. 45 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/et.2003.00445aab.004

Young adults describe how demand for learning can be increased

Young adults describe how demand for learning can be increased

Central London's young adults have offered London Central Learning and Skills Council (LSC) a series of challenging recommendations to help to make a return to learning more attractive to those with few or no qualifications. They range from better child care to improved careers advice. A survey by the LSC and Opinion Leader Research has revealed that most participants have a fairly positive attitude towards learning, although they have mixed feelings about how it relates to them personally. Experiences at school strongly influence current perceptions, with education largely associated with systems, rules and regulations and something out of their control.

Adult education is seen as a positive way of changing lives, although contributors were quick to point out there are many barriers to enrolling and taking part in courses. These included the cost, a lack of support from friends and family and a need for improved crèche facilities. Often, the unemployed did not consider additional learning and training as a viable option unless it was offered as part of the Job Seekers' Allowance scheme. Participants were overwhelmingly critical of the careers advice they had received. Many suggested their views were not taken seriously at school and the information on offer was insufficient. Unemployed people were also critical of advice provided at Job Centres, stating they were not listened to as individuals.

There are mixed views on the impact of technology, depending on the individual's exposure to, and experience of, computers and the Internet. Some welcome the benefits that information technology brings, such as training on the Internet, whereas others see it as a huge barrier and are hesitant to enrol on courses because of their lack of knowledge.

The survey, which will be used by London Central LSC to help to devise strategy to stimulate local learning demand, was conducted using eight focus groups of central London residents. The groups were made up of males and females, aged between 19 and 30, with few or no qualifications, from a range of backgrounds, who were either employed or seeking work. Jacqui Henderson, London Central LSC executive director, said: "This survey offers revealing insight into the attitudes of young Londoners. The results provide valuable lessons on how to tailor, present and market provision to encourage young people to re-engage with learning. London Central LSC is particularly keen to break down barriers to learning. The survey gives us a clear sense of direction of what our priorities should be."