In Latvia, adult learning unfolds amid significant economic and social challenges: accelerated digital transformation and a volatile labour market drive demand for a sustainable, coordinated, and data driven adult professional development system. A mixed‑methods study drawing on qualitative analysis of 15 studies on adult education in Latvia (2008–2023), 14 focus groups with experts (n=28), service providers (n=33) and users (n=68), as well as a nationally representative survey of employed residents (n=1000) identifies several systemic shortcomings. Findings indicate that the current adult education system is marked by fragmented governance; limited availability of modern, labour market aligned, and easily accessible provision; low adult motivation and engagement; weak transfer of learning to workplaces; and the absence of transparent mechanisms to assess return on investment and skills transfer. To address these challenges, a framework has been developed for evaluating the effectiveness of adult professional competence development at the state, organisational, and individual levels across four indicator domains - financial, socioeconomic, structural (organisational), and quality, covering the full cycle from inputs and system readiness to training quality, transfer, and socioeconomic impact. To ensure transparency, comparability, and methodological consistency, each indicator is specified in a unified structure across all levels: what is measured, why it is measured, how it is measured, which data are required, how often measurement occurs, and which processes/activities are needed to ensure effective provision The framework is intended to support policymakers with an instrument for evidence based decision making and for the continuous improvement and development of Latvia’s adult learning system.

Authors:
Inese Lusena-Ezera, Riga Technical university, Latvia

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Inese Lusena-Ezera is currently a professor of Educational management at Liepaja Academy, Riga Technical University, Latvia.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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