Learning Age Conference

On Wednesday last June 9th I attended the above conference in Belfast. It was a learning experience in that there were people attending mostly from Northern Ireland, the Uk and a small number from central Europe and as a result a much broader picture emerged in the context of Lifelong Learning. One or two observations at this stage, a great interest in Northern Ireland particularly in rural areas. and in the UK the age group 50-75 lifelong learning policies and funds directed at this age group. From 75 upwards no incentives available at any level. Intergenerational learning regarded as one component of learning process. there was mention of The Forsythe Review in the Uk which encouraged on going learning, skills update, and training. The 18-25 age group accounts for most expenditure in the education area.

As I stated already Northern Ireland has a lot going for it, after the troubles daily life returning to normal, adult learning playing a major role. Another observation women more interested than men. In this context learning means coping with retirement, bereavment and health issues. There are a number of cross border groups U3A and others involved in the process. I was delighted to give my testimony of a senior learner which was well received and commented on.

I attended a workshop about adult learning in Australia. There the situation is a small ageing population. Here there is an organization called Cota which looks after the needs of senior citizens on many levels including education. On line learning very common with senior citizens,people have a preference to learn at home.

For women in middle age Beyond Maturity Blues is peer education dealing with depression,bereavement, retirement as an identity. Most of this brings about self learning groups. For men there are special groups which deal with unemployment, health issues relevant to men. An example was given of a group interested in astronomy who bought a telescope for viewing events in space, they meet on a regular basis for an exchange of views and are interdependent. Walking clubs. community based activities common in Australia.

Finally to say here in Ireland learning in later life is in its early stages and making great progress. The future is very promising. I enjoyed the conference and would be willing to give a feedback in more detail sometime in the future.