Bigger pictures, broader horizons: widening access to adult learning in the arts and cultural sectors

Providing new and imaginative opportunities that encourage adults to learn and develop fresh skills has an increasingly prominent position on social agendas that aim to widen access to learning, regenerate communities, and tackle social exclusion. Non-traditional providers in the arts and cultural sectors contribute to these opportunities by delivering a variety of activities, courses and workshops. This research, which was carried out between August 2002 and January 2003, was a qualitative study aimed at finding out adults? perceptions of informal learning and exploring the potential role of non-traditional providers and venues in offering learning opportunities. Visits were undertaken to 29 venues where interviews were conducted with 131 learners (participants), 46 people not engaged in learning activities (non-participants) and 28 staff with the intention of eliciting learners? views on the provision made by non-traditional providers of adult learning. Learners’ views were very positive, however there were some concerns about resourcing and facilities. It should be possible to develop activities in this sector and to reach a wider audience. Whether accessing such provision can lead learners directly into more formal, accredited courses has yet to be demonstrated but a key component of such progression would be partnerships between non-traditional and mainstream providers, which could provide learners with ready access to information and guidance about courses, and ease the path to further study for those learners wishing to build on the skills or knowledge gained. Show less