Ireland lags behind other developed countries in learning and education

With widespread redundancies and unemployment reaching its highest level since 1999, the Government's drive toward the modern, knowledge economy is now considered more important than ever, according to recent research by the OECD.

Education at a Glance 2008, recently published by the global body, found that the ratio of hours spent in job related training and workplace initiatives in Ireland was just 12% compared to the OECD average of 25%, suggesting that particpation in education and learning was far lower in Ireland than in other developed countries.

The data is expected to tally with the results of the Lifelong Learning Index 2008, an annual public study carried out by Learning Ireland and operated, this year, in conjunction with national adult learning organisation, Aontas. The study, to be carried out in October, will investigate the experiences and ambitions of the general public with adult education, lifelong learning and further study. The results of the 2008 survey will be published in October.

Speaking at the launch of this year’s Index, Learning Ireland’s Kevin Branigan said "This annual benchmark study has given us an interesting insight into trends and developments in the area. I am sure that the Lifelong Learning Index 2008 will be our most revealing yet, especially with the expert input of an experienced and committed organisation like Aontas." Speaking of the importance of further education to the Irish people, he pointed out that "A vibrant lifelong learning sector can ensure that people are returning to education and training throughout their lives, and equipping themselves with the necessary skills to work in today’s fast paced and technological workplace."

Also speaking at the launch of the Lifelong Learning Index 2008 was Director of Aontas, Berni Brady. She said, "AONTAS is particularly interested in collaborating with Learning Ireland on this important research.  We can see from the survey over the last two years that there is a huge interest in lifelong learning – so it will be interesting to look at the barriers that people identify, as well as some of the supports available to adults in employment interested in returning to learn."

The Lifelong Learning Index has become an important annual gauge of the opinions and reactions of the Irish public in their experience of adult education. Findings in 2007 included the following:

*75% of respondents had taken an adult education course
*87% intended to enrol in training or adult education over the following 12 months
*66% believed continuous training/education is essential for career development

"It will be fascinating to discover if these trends have continued in 2008," said Branigan, "especially with the recent downturn in the fortunes of the Irish economy. Education in Ireland is experiencing the threat of a reduction in investment, but the economy is starved of the skilled workers that a healthy provision of lifelong learning and training can provide. Monitoring people’s experiences will hopefully provide all stakeholders with a clear idea of the current state of affairs."

Berni Brady continued, "We already know that adult education is hugely beneficial in terms of people developing their skills, and that this provides opportunities for career progression.  But it is also interesting to look at other outcomes – for example individuals have cited increased confidence, new friendships as a result of taking part in adult education programmes.  These are developments which can assist people to cope with change – which is an important factor given the current economic climate."

The Lifelong Learning Index 2008 will feature on Learning Ireland’s www.nightcourses.com website, and www.aontas.com, the website of the national adult learning organisation Aontas, from the 10th until the 27th of October. All respondents to the survey will be entered into a free draw for a brand new lap top computer.

-Note to Editors-

Learning Ireland operates the National Education Database, the largest searchable database of course options in Ireland, listing more than 40,000 courses from over 2,000 course providers nationwide. Part time education options are listed on the website www.nightcourses.com and in the print publication, The National Guide to Nightcourses. The company also provides free qualified guidance advice to the general public via its web portals.

AONTAS is the National Adult Learning Organisation. AONTAS is a non-governmental membership organisation, established in 1969. The organisation's mission is to ensure that every adult in Ireland has access to appropriate and affordable learning opportunities throughout their lives, thus enabling them to contribute to and participate in the economic, social, civic and cultural development of Irish society. The role of AONTAS is to work towards improving the adult education sector in Ireland through policy development, promoting the benefits of adult education and research.

AONTAS is a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee. AONTAS represents over 600 members, ranging from statutory providers of adult education, such as VECs and third level institutions, to voluntary providers of community education, to individual adult learners and those with a general interest in adult education.