Over a ⅓ of adults say they're unable to afford adult education

THE biggest barrier to British adults continuing their education is cost, with more than a 35% saying they're unable to afford to study, while 19% say they don't have time. A YouGov survey of 2,109 GB adults commissioned by distance learning provider The Oxford Open Learning Trust found that, although 69% of respondents said they could be motivated to learn for any type of new qualification; from GCSEs to PHDs and industry certificates; only 27% are likely to actually do so. The other barriers that Brits said most commonly stop them from studying are that they don't have the time to devote to it (19%) and feeling that another qualification would be unnecessary because they feel they are educated enough (18%). As well as respondents also saying that they lack the motivation to study (17%), the same number also said they lack the energy. Many Brits also commented that they deem themselves too old. The research also revealed that many British adults would be happy to continue learning if they felt they could. Receiving a boost to their pay packet is only the ⅓ most common incentive, agreed 30% of Brits, whereas 42% would be more likely to take a course simply out of their own general interest in the subject.

The 5 most common issues that stop adults from continuing with education in the future are:-

1. Lack of affordability (35%)

2. Time constraints (19%)

3. Not needing any further qualifications (18%)

4. Lack of motivation (17%)

5. Lack of energy (17%)

Greg Smith, head of operations at Oxford Open Learning Trust, said:- "The fact that so many would like to study further but don't feel that they can, points to a lot of misconceptions that people have about adult education. For those who think they're too old, adult learning isn't only about furthering a career; it's also extremely beneficial in terms of mental health. There's evidence to show that, not only does keeping the brain active combat depression and anxiety, but also helps prevent dementia in later life and boosts confidence. Studying for a new qualification with a distance learning course is also vastly different to a classroom, and can be spread over a longer period to fit in with your current work or lifestyle. The initial cost is often far outweighed by the benefits of gaining a new qualification, through an increase in pay, a promotion or a career change."

Oxford Open Learning's Top Tips for Adult Learners:-

► Make the learning experience as relevant and useful as possible. Draw on your personal experiences and link the subject matter to real world benefits for your work and personal life.

► Make learning as engaging as possible to boost motivation. Use a variety of learning stimuli, such as images, activities, videos, lectures and podcasts to find what works for you.

► Breaking down information into bite sized chunks can also help to make it easier to process, and don't forget to take regular breaks to help you maintain concentration.

► Master your skills by playing an active role in your learning experience. Exploring the subject matter through self-study and active participation can help you to learn in a way that is meaningful to you

► Let learning occur through mistakes. Trial and error can make the learning experience more effective, while the sense of overcoming a challenge can help to boost confidence.

More advice on how to overcome perceived barriers to adult education can be read online:- Ool.Co.UK.

Microsoft Partners with Hugh Baird College

HUGH Baird College has once again been chosen by technology titan Microsoft, as the only College in Merseyside, and 1 of only 17 Colleges in the UK, to become a 'Showcase College.' Microsoft Showcase Colleges are a global network of Colleges:- "engaged in innovative change to improve teaching and learning and support the economic vitality of the locality they serve." As a Microsoft Showcase College, Hugh Baird College will be enabled to focus on personalised learning for students through the use of 1 to 1 devices and software such as; Office 365 Education, Teams, OneNote, Azure, Sway and more. The College will also share ideas with other Showcase Colleges and host educational events designed to inspire young people about the potential technology has to transform their career potential. The College offers blended learning; using online or digital support on courses, a team of Digital Champions to help staff develop their own digital skills, and Microsoft training. Increasing numbers of staff across the College are also gaining Microsoft Innovative Educator badges through an innovative course that helps teachers learn how to best apply technology in education.

Hugh Baird College Director of Facilities and Technical Services, John Billington, said:- "It's a fantastic achievement for Hugh Baird College to receive this accolade for a second consecutive year. As a Microsoft Showcase College, our students, staff and community will benefit from billions of pounds of research and knowledge that we would have otherwise not have had access to. We all know that technology is constantly changing, and we have to keep up with it if we are to provide the skills our learners deserve and the support our staff need. I'd like to personally thank Microsoft for selecting our College, their support has been outstanding and has enabled us to further achieve our vision of being at the forefront of innovation with exceptional teaching and learning."

Nicky Bowen, Hugh Baird College E-Learning and Training Officer, said:- "It is vital for our students to be equipped with the knowledge and practical experience of using the latest technology available on the market. Almost all careers now require you to be literate in using digital skills and we are here to give our students the best opportunity to progress in their lives once they complete their studies with us at Hugh Baird College."

Anthony Salcito, Vice President of Worldwide Education, at Microsoft, said:- "Microsoft Showcase Colleges are shining examples of those applying purpose driven innovation in a variety of ways to build connection, motivate students and to create community in and out of education. These Colleges are truly transforming learning and providing more personalised education to students, empowering them to achieve more."