Policy Papers
Part-time fees in Higher Education
In June 2007 AONTAS produced a Policy Position Paper on Part-time Fees in Higher Education outlining the organisation’s stance on fees charged for part-time courses in third level institutions. The paper was drawn up following extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders, including third level institutions, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and the National Access Office. The paper identifies the need for the removal of fees for part-time students in order to ensure equal access for all learners in higher level education. However the paper highlights that fees for part-time students are “one piece of the jigsaw” and comprehensive supports, including financial assistance are also required for smooth progression through the system.
Lifelong Learning Needs of Older People
Also in June, AONTAS produced a Discussion Document on the Lifelong Learning Needs of Older People in Ireland, at the request of the Further Education Section, DES. The report was informed by broad consultation with relevant stakeholders including providers of services to older people and older people involved in lifelong learning. It will inform more in-depth research in the area in 2008 which is being supported by Age & Opportunity, the Irish National Agency working toward challenging negative attitudes to ageing and older people and promoting greater participation by older people in society. This research will examine the extent to which the learning needs of older people are understood and addressed within the adult and community education sector, and explore how adult educators might be supported to develop innovative approaches and processes which will engage older people in learning and strengthen their voice in relation to their right to learn. The research will be completed by end of May 2008.
Professional Development and Support Services for Adult and Community Education
In 2007 AONTAS submitted a discussion paper on professional development and support services in adult and community education to the Further Education Section and the Steering group for the Community Education Facilitator’s Training and Support Programme. There are now more resources , and as a consequence many more staff available to adult and community education than ever before, and this has led to more sophistication in the service. The development and implementation of the various quality assurance frameworks (NALA, Youthreach, FETAC, AONTAS Women’s Quality Assurance Framework) , and the process of strategic planning at local level, have required a range of new skills within the sector including leadership, change management, strategic thinking and planning and the development of partnerships. The paper identifies training needs within the sector and recommends the establishment of the Inter-Agency Working Group on professional development as recommended by the White paper on Adult education, Learning for Life.
