The Department for Education commissioned Learning and Work Institute to undertake research into how adults with qualifications below level 2 make decisions about whether or not to take up learning.
This research used in-depth interviews and focus groups with adults who are currently not engaged in learning.
The main findings of the research included:
- Common motivators for learning, such as career, family, mental wellbeing and personal development
- Potential barriers to learning, such as financial cost, time and energy, inflexible employers, and insufficient learning support systems
- Blended learning, combining face-to-face with online learning, was considered to be an attractive option by many participants.
To engage more adults in learning, participants suggested that learning providers should:
- Be age-inclusive in their marketing strategy
- Offer clear, accurate information about the benefits and challenges of adult learning to inform decision-making.
Participants also emphasised the importance of:
- Financial support to cover course costs and other associated costs, such as childcare
- Employer, tutor and peer support.
