Participants in the session observed that, while there is significant research about barriers to adult learning, particularly in formal learning opportunities, there appears to be a vacuum in addressing policy options for reducing the barriers. There is not a lot of insight in the literature on non-participants – what keeps them out and what would make it easier for them to participate. The evidence suggests that non-participants face multiple challenges: low levels of education, immigrants and refugees, over 50 years of age, with sensory, mobility, and learning disabilities, and with poor notions of self-as-learner.
There is a need for more information about relationships between formal and informal learning.
Special thanks to recorders Robert Aucoin and Susanna Burns
“Culture plays an important role as a catalyst for economic prosperity, social health, national identity and provides the raw materials of the imagination – the foundations of which hope and wisdom are built.”Wyman, 2004
State of the Field Review on Culture
A research team from the University of Victoria, Darlene Clover (presenter), Odette Laramee and Kathy Linker prepared the report on culture which included interviews and focus groups. Laurie McCauley, Artistic Director from Myths and Mirrors Community Arts in Sudbury, Ontario provided the practitioner’s response.
The research team focused primarily on the arts, including dance, popular theatre, fabric arts, crafts, story telling, film and literature because it was more manageable and most often associated with culture.
There was much discussion around the definition of the arts and its role and importance in formal and informal learning, particularly in relation to identifying ways in which adult learners continue to learn throughout life.
Two major concepts of the arts and adult education were presented. The first was adult arts education and training which incorporates exposure to museums, classes of painting, sculpture, and other art related subjects, training and supports for artists. Two examples were cited: Quebec’s emphasis on formal arts training and museums, and First Nations/Aboriginal Cultural organizations and the value placed on First Nations and aboriginal art. Although this area is considered to be well resourced, there were concerns about the declining funding for artists and the commercialization of the arts.