Summary of Research Proposal
The Department for the Economy has commissioned the Alliance for Lifelong Learning to carry out a short piece of research into Impact Measurement of Adult Education, with a particular focus on non-formal learning. Alliance members FALNI and AONTAS will carry out the research.
Rationale
As noted in the Northern Ireland Community Education Census, 2021-22 (2023), the emphasis in adult learning remains on ‘counting outputs’ and ‘fails to capture the full impact’ (p. 44). When it comes to qualitative data, data collection and outcomes measurement are variable and resource intensive, particularly for community and voluntary organisations who rely on short-term, project-based funding. This creates problems when raising awareness of the impact and benefits of adult learning, as well as when making commissioning/funding decisions and monitoring/evaluating funded programmes.
Aim of research
The aim of this research is to arrive at evidence-based solutions to improve data collection and impact measurement of non-formal adult education, which will:
- Help promote the benefits, value and impact of adult learning, especially non-accredited, non-formal and informal learning, to individuals and wider society;
- Support commissioning/funding decisions; and
- Support the monitoring and evaluation of funded programmes.
Methodology
The research will consist of a survey sent around VCSE organisations and FE colleges and focus groups and interviews with VCSE reps, FE reps, funders (both governmental and philanthropic) and learners.
The survey takes around 20 mins to complete. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/impactadulteducation
The research report will be completed by the end of March 2025 and launched in April.
If you have any questions please contact colin.neilands@falni.org or ecobain@aontas.com
