Understanding the Social Experience of Education from Adult Learners in South Australian Rural Communities

Jillian Marchant Marchant,Pauline Taylor

doi:10.25120/etropic.14.1.2015.3368

Abstract

This article offers a preliminary overview of a study that investigates the experiences of adult learners residing in rural communities in the state of South Australia. Online delivery of adult education is growing, allowing more individuals who are remote from learning sites to engage with further education. Increased educational opportunity to participate in learning as well as social policy developments with an emphasis on continuing education offers a chance in research to understand the developments generated by adult education. The work presented here shows a way of investigating social engagement offered through education, especially those that allow rural students to enhance their chances across the life course. It does so through engaging with the reports from adult students. Understanding the role of education through the social experiences of adult students in rural communities highlights the role of education in the areas of personal, social and community development.

Highlights

As a long-term resident in the rural areas of Australia, I have had many opportunities to experience and observe local social interactions
This study addresses the following research questions: 1. How is social inclusion offered through social interactions? 2
Understanding social inclusion through the social interactions of the contributors as adult learners residing in rural communities offers an appreciation of the experiences that constitute social inclusion and occasions where social inclusion can either further or diminish the chances of individuals

Summary

Introduction

As a long-term resident in the rural areas of Australia, I have had many opportunities to experience and observe local social interactions. As an adult learner living in a rural area, I am increasingly fascinated with the role of education to influence the social outcomes of rural communities and their members. Diminishing resources and economic opportunities within some rural areas has led to the outmigration of many former residents into metropolitan locations (Smailes, 1995). Smailes (1995) work is a beginning in reviewing elements that may lead to social sustainability in the face of deteriorating rural communities. The “Skills for All” program, offers a way to revitalise the social and economic elements of South Australia. The South etropic 14.1 (2015): Education Graduate Student Symposium 2014 | 65

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