Understanding and measuring returns to adult learning
By : SRDC, April 17 2014
Posted on: SRDC
Today SRDC is releasing the findings of the Adult Learning and Returns to Training Project. The three-year project created a framework for the development and assessment of learning programs ranging from workplace literacy courses to advanced postsecondary studies.
Governments in Canada support a myriad of adult learning programs. Such programs can, for example, help the disadvantaged to prepare for productive working careers or assist workers in the transition to new technologies in the workplace.
Recent research on adult learning has provided useful insights on some programs but an overall analytical framework for understanding, classifying, and consistently measuring the various types of programs has been lacking. A more systemic approach would help to answer important questions about adult training. How can policy-makers decide which aspects of adult learning merit new investments? How can program managers and trainers determine whether their courses are yielding the intended results?
