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Participation in learning and future intentions to learn
The question used within the survey series since 1996 has been drafted as broadly as possible to include all types of learning and in any mode. It is a question asked of individuals themselves, not in terms of levels or providers, and it asks the respondents to tell the interviewer what they are learning about without any further prompting. The findings are therefore useful in capturing the proportion of the population who see themselves as learners.
Respondents are asked:
“Learning can mean practising, studying or reading about something. It can also mean being taught, instructed or coached. This is so you can develop skills, knowledge, abilities or understanding of something. Learning can also be called education or training. You can do it regularly (each day or month) or you can do it for a short period of time. It can be full time or part time, done at home, at work, or in another place like a college. Learning does not have to lead to a qualification. We are interested in any learning you have done, whether or not it was finished.
Turning to learning in general: which one of these statements most applies to you?
a) I am currently doing some learning activity
b) I have done some learning activity in the last three years
c) I have studied or learned but it was over three years ago
d) I have not studied or learned since I left full-time education”
Respondents are also asked:
How likely are you to take up learning in the next three years?
a) Very likely
b) Fairly likely
c) Fairly unlikely
d) Very unlikely
e) Don’t know
