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This project is associated with the Phase II project, ‘Transforming
Learning Cultures in Further Education’ (TLC). The overall aim of
the Scottish Extension project is to provide systematic knowledge
and understanding of the learning cultures – the individual, social,
economic and historical factors that shape learning experiences
– associated with community-based further education (FE), and through
this to identify changes in practice which will lead to enhanced
engagement with learning. It will extend the work of the Phase II
project through developing the theoretical and methodological perspectives
within the TLC project, and focusing on an aspect of provision which
is not central to that project (viz. community based provision).
Our work is contextualised in the current policy focus on lifelong
learning where the key contributions of the FE sector and the particular
contribution of community based provision to widening access, supporting
lifelong learning and tackling social exclusion are recognised.
The work is undertaken in partnership with two Scottish FE colleges.
The project will seek to integrate a number of theoretical perspectives,
develop a methodological approach which will lead to an enhanced
understanding of learning cultures, and identify how these can be
transformed. The distinctive methodological approach will be based
on collaborative work with tutors and students through which change
strategies will be identified and implemented on each site. An initial
evaluation of these strategies will be undertaken.
This will contribute to a programme of dissemination which is designed
to involve the wider FE community in a process of investigation,
reflection and change. The concepts of learning cultures, learning
careers and learning relationships will provide the framework for
the analysis of the data which will be generated. The project will
provide models for transformation of learning cultures in FE community
based provision, leading to enhanced learner outcomes.
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