The learners’ questionnaire was completed by 60 learners who were currently attending Cambrian College at the time the questionnaire was distributed. See Appendix D for the learners’ questionnaire.

Although the questionnaires were not designed to get corresponding responses, there were questions of sufficient similarity that allowed for some comparative analysis. Both learners and practitioners, for example, were asked to comment on the negative influences that impacted on learners’ attendance and rate of progress. Both groups were also asked about time limits for completing the LBS program and how long they thought it should take to complete an LBS level. A summary of the key findings is presented in the following section.

Summary of Findings

Key findings are:

• Learners and LBS college practitioners appear to agree on the two greatest barriers to attendance – family demands and health concerns. Many other barriers were reported.
• Most colleges (12 out of 14) reported that they had strategies in place to address attendance or were in the process of developing strategies. Five were less sure about their effectiveness.
• Poor attendance and the presence of learning disabilities were cited by practitioners as the main reasons for learners’ lack of academic progress. Only 60% (36 out of 60) of learners surveyed, however, felt that attendance was closely linked to rate of progress. Learners also reported that teachers were the most important overall positive influence in helping them make progress in their LBS programs. Nearly half referred to the important role of the teacher in encouraging, supporting and guiding them.
• The maximum amount of time that practitioners felt it should take a learner to complete an LBS level ranged from 1.5 months to a year. Several stressed that this was a very individualized situation and that many factors had to be considered. Many learners agreed.