Researching Widening Access to Lifelong Learning: Issues and Approaches in International Research

Researching Widening Access to Lifelong Learning: Issues and appraches in international researchEdited by Michael Osborne, Jim Gallacher and Beth CrossanThis authoritative volume is a truly international contribution to the worldwide debate on how best to widen access to lifelong learning.The first section of the book comprises research studies from around the world, reflecting the diversity of contexts in which widening access is researched, and considers issues central to the access debate, including different understandings of the concept of access, organisational and structural change, curriculum development, entry policies, performance and retention, and labour market outcomes.The second illustrates a range of diverse and innovative methodological approaches that have been employed by researchers in the field and considers the range of approaches available to researchers.Given the growing concern around the world on the need to combat social exclusion and to improve economic circumstances through access to lifelong learning, this book acts as a unique reference point informing the ongoing debate, exploring the interrelationship between research, policy and practice. It will be essential reading for students, academics and policymakers researching the global phenomenon of widening access to education.Michael Osborne is Professor of Lifelong Education, Co-Director of the Centre for Research in Lifelong Learning, University of Stirling and editor of the Journal of Adult and Continuing Education. Jim Gallacher is Professor of Lifelong Learning and Co-Director of the Centre for Research in Lifelong Learning, Glasgow Caledonian University. Beth Crossan is Research Fellow at the Centre for Research in Lifelong Learning, Glasgow Caledonian University.Osborne, Michael is the author of 'Researching Widening Access to Lifelong Learning: Issues and Approaches in International Research', published 2007 under ISBN 9780415409643 and ISBN 0415409640.