Research and analysis

Community learning: learner survey - after 2 years

Describing the effects of community learning on learners up to 2 years later. BIS research paper number 170.

Applies to England

Documents

Details

The first community learning learner survey report set out findings from interviews with learners who had completed a community learning course in England during the period July 2011 to February 2012.

This report describes the results of a second survey with the same learners, around 1 year later and up to 2 years after they completed their courses. The survey interviewed 1,951 learners to find out whether the effects they reported soon after learning were continuing.

This report describes a range of self-reported changes in learners’ lives since the time of the first interview, including:

  • personal progression
  • personal well-being
  • social and community aspects
  • work and employability
  • parenting and relationships with children
  • attitudes to learning
  • willingness to pay for learning

The survey data tables are available above.

The report includes 4 photo stories to help illustrate the benefits of participating in community learning and show how participation is linked to decision-making and longer term impacts. View the learner journeys below.

Case studies

Community learning pottery course helps Anne design and sell a range of homemade ceramics

Anne

Community learning woodworking course leads Keith into higher education

Keith

Community learning helps Michael become a web developer

Michael

Community learning helps Neil use his artistic skills to improve his career prospects

Neil

Published 28 March 2014
Last updated 6 June 2014 + show all updates
  1. Case studies links added

  2. First published.