– AONTAS calls for Government recognition of community education as a tool for creating positive social change –
Lone parents, people affected by addiction or imprisonment, people with disabilities, older adults and migrant women are among the marginalised and vulnerable communities that experience multi-layered and intersectional barriers to lifelong learning participation in Ireland. That’s according to new research launched by AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation, at a Policy event at the Richmond Centre in Smithfield, Dublin.
Based on the opinions and experiences of over 1,100 adult learners across Ireland, the findings of the Lifelong Learning Research Report were shared at the ‘Stepping Stones and Stable Roots’ event which explored the role of community education in the new tertiary education system. Attended by community education practitioners, learners, policymakers and Government representatives, the event also marked the opening of the annual AONTAS Adult Learners’ Festival, which runs until Friday, 10th March.
The report identifies community education as key to reducing barriers for marginalised and vulnerable learners. The issues identified which hinder people from staying in, or returning to, education include financial costs; access to childcare; lack of flexible and accessible learning options; digital skills and access to IT equipment; difficulties with home environment and personal safety; trauma; stigma; and self-esteem and confidence.
Dearbháil Lawless, Chief Executive of AONTAS, said: “A key aim of the new tertiary education system is to address the socio-economic disadvantages which lead to underrepresentation of groups in Ireland’s education system. The research we’ve shared today demonstrates the multi-layered and intersectional barriers which cause that underrepresentation and the crucial role that community education plays in providing a holistic, wrap-around support to learners. There can be no one-size fits all solution.
“For many of those surveyed in our research – women affected by addiction, people affected by imprisonment, migrant women, those who have experienced discrimination and trauma – the non-formal nature of community education can play an integral part of their healing and building their trust in grassroots community learning. In that sense, our tutors and staff support learners with a range of needs beyond teaching – they are a valuable resource to society and we want to see that recognised.
“Today’s event will explore the role of community education in the new unified tertiary education system and a recommendation that already has great support from our sector is that community education is explicitly named as a strand within the new system. Our hope is that with this acknowledgement and funding, the Government will recognise and empower the role of community education in creating positive social change in Ireland.”