he first chart illustrates the reasons why adults decided to study in 2005, while the second shows opinions on how the cost of adult education should be shared.
Overall, the main motivation for adults to continue studying was personal interest, closely followed by gaining qualifications, whereas meeting new people was the least common reason. Regarding financial responsibility, most people believed that individuals themselves should pay for their education.
Looking at the first chart in detail, 40% of respondents studied because they were interested in the subject, slightly higher than the 38% who aimed to gain qualifications. About a fifth of adults saw studying as a way to improve their job prospects or enjoy learning, while 22% considered it helpful for their current job. Fewer people – only 12% – studied to change jobs, and just 9% did so to meet new people.
As for how the costs should be shared, individuals were thought to bear the largest portion (40%), followed by employers (35%), whereas taxpayers were expected to contribute the least (25%).
In summary, personal interest and qualifications were the primary drivers for adult education, and most people believed that learners themselves should cover the greatest share of the expenses.
