Evidence-based policy making in adult learning and education: insights from the ESRC A.L.E. Policies project

DATE: Tuesday 24 June 2025 from 10:00h – 16:00h

VENUE: Redmond Community Centre, Kayani Avenue, Woodberry Down, N4 2HF London

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER ONLINE Registration is free of charge and includes lunch and coffee breaks.

We warmly invited you to the final conference of the ESRC A.L.E Policies project. This event is targeted towards policymakers and stakeholders in the field of adult learning and education across the UK and Ireland.

The morning session will disseminate findings on the convergences and divergences of evidence-based policymaking across the UK, with additional insights on the role of evidence in the work of international governmental organisations. Insights will be presented on data collected among key informants in expert roles. A Panel with representatives from the devolved nations and the Learning and Work Institute will reflect on the project results.

The afternoon session will start with a presentation on the ongoing debates in relation to the conceptualisation and measurement of adult learning and education. Afterwards, the ESRC A.L.E. Policies team will facilitate an interactive workshop with the audience on evidence gaps and data needs in the field, and its potential for policymaking.

PROGRAMME:

10:00h – 10:30h Welcome, introductions and overview of the ESRC project

10:30h – 11:45h: The role of evidence-based policy making in ALE. Insights from policymakers and stakeholders across the UK, Ireland, and international governmental organisations.

11:45h – 12:00h: coffee break

12:00h- 13:00h: Reflections on results by Panel with Learning and Work Institute (L&W) and representatives from the devolved nations

13:00h – 13:45h: Lunch and informal networking

13:45h – 14:30h: Ongoing issues regarding the conceptualisation and measurement of adult learning and education. Insights from a new Special Issue published in International Journal of Lifelong Education

14:30h – 15.45h: Interactive workshop on evidence gaps and data needs in adult learning and education. What are the potentials and routes to promote evidence-based policy making?

15:45h – 16:00h: Take-home messages and conclusion of event