Adult Learning : A ‘Sense of Direction’ and ‘New Possibilities’
29 Sep 2009 12:04 PM
Learning brings 'a sense of direction' and 'opens up new possibilities' , according to Minister for Older People Áine Brady, opening a meeting of the AONTAS Senior Learner Network which took place today, September 28th at Collins Barracks Museum, Dublin. The network itself consists of over 400 learners nationwide drawn from 77 organisations working with older people throughout Ireland. The network was set up to allow older people to share their skills and experience, and to identify common concerns experienced by older people in accessing education. Over one hundred older people attended the event.
According to AONTAS Director Berni Brady, 'In the current economic downturn, adult education presents a real opportunity for people to reskill and eventually move into alternative employment. However, within the skills debate it's also important to remember the social aspect of education. Adult education is a great way for people to connect with others and to keep mind and body active. This is especially important for older people, who are at risk of isolation. Older people also have much to contribute in the current climate in terms of their skills and experience, and we need to find ways of capitalising on this knowledge.'
Speaking at the event the Minister said 'Being involved in further education helps break down the sense of isolation that older people can often feel. Being actively involved in learning encourages a sense of direction and introduces people to a new community of fellow learners. It is through this involvement that a sense of belonging is fostered, thus opening up new possibilities such as friendship, skills and community involvement.'
Mary Mason was one of those attending the meeting and who has a long personal history of involvement in education. Following her retirement, she signed up for a course on creative writing organised by her local adult learning centre. She discovered hidden skills in writing, and went on this year to complete her first novel. She also took part in an intergenerational learning initiative at DCU which helped her to brush up on her IT skills. 'Computer skills are essential for older people today. Older women especially need to be targeted, because they have often spent long periods of time outside of the workforce, and may have little or no computer skills.' Mary makes a strong case for lifelong learning. 'It has taken me in all sorts of directions', she says. 'My confidence improved, I discovered all sorts of skills and aptitudes that I didn't realise I had.'
Recent AONTAS research revealed that the majority of older people who took part in some form of learning did so for social reasons. In addition, out of almost seven thousand people who contacted AONTAS for information about education, 38% were over the age of 55. 'AONTAS has just made a submission to the Positive Ageing Strategy which highlights the benefits of education as people get older. Education has been proven to benefit older people in terms of health, independence and self fulfillment. The number of older people involved in this network is evidence in itself of the appetite for education,' concluded Ms Brady.
ENDS
For more information contact: Niamh Farren Communications Officer 087 911 0569
Note to Editor
1. 'Don't Stop me Now' - Research on the Lifelong Learning Needs of Older People, was launched in February of this year and is available from AONTAS.
