The process of participating in formal adult education lengthens and strengthens the working careers of individuals. The results showed that adult education had increased adult students’ subjective and objective chances of becoming or staying employed significantly in the short, middle and long run. In addition, it appeared that the educational process very well enhances the experienced significance of work and other qualitative factors contributing to staying longer in working life.

Researchers studied the effects of adult education among nurses, construction workers and others who have participated in secondary education or polytechnic education lately.  Researchers conducted a deliberate survey (n=805) and several interviews (n=61) in working life contexts using a semi-structured approach.

Ministry of Labour. Labour Policy Studies no. 290.

The effects are not at all dependent on the education type or age but somewhat dependent on the branch. For example, construction workers more often than other respondents consider education to be slightly less significant. However, the effects of education on psycho-social readiness, willingness to stay longer in working life and qualifications are considered to be rather positive in general. Also, the demands set by working life are seen as quite high and the main goal of adult students seems to be to develop their professional skills.

Generally the adult education system offers individuals the means to lengthen and strengthen their careers. However, the quantitative and qualitative results imply a need to further develop adult education with the following methods: more supportive guidance before and during education, conversation possibilities and opportunities to develop normative, innovative and human qualifications for working life as well. Education, adult education in particular, offers individuals one way to improve their careers in qualitative and quantitative terms. What is important is to negotiate about the effects and goals of education more and to make these visible for enhancing the effectiveness of education.

Of the respondents, 85% appreciate clearly more their professional skills and nearly 80% are more able and willing to learn new things. About 50% consider that their working environment, possibilities to influence at work and social interaction have also improved significantly. In the light of many previous studies, these factors are the central prerequisites that support staying longer in working life. Also, 85% think that education gives motivation to work in general and 83% are of the opinion that education is a prerequisite for staying longer in working life. Formal adult education has developed quite significantly the skills that most respondents need in working life. However, interaction skills, practical skills and the ability to work under pressure seem to be among the least developed skills needed in working life. In the short run, the employment rate has risen from 74% to 92% and the number of permanent contracts of employment has increased among all respondents.

Ministry of Labour
P.O. Box 34
00023 Government
Phone: + 358 10 60 4001
kirjaamo.tyoministerio@mol.fi
http://www.mol.fi

01/11/2005

Esa Jokinen and Natalia Luoma-Keturi

research

Urban Policy > Economy knowledge & employment > Training

Training for new professions, Lifelong learning, Vocational training