Factors influencing participation in adult education at three colleges in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The sudden upsurge in student numbers seeking skilled related further education courses at Zimbabwe polytechnics and technical colleges prompted this study to search for the factors driving adults from all walks of life to participate in education. The study emplyed the survey method and data was collected through the use of mailed questionnaires, analysis of student enrolment records and informal interviews. The study looked at the whole population of 474 adult learners registered at the time of the investigation. 41% of the respondent were from Harare polytechnic, 36% from Bulawayo polytechnic and 23% from Mutare technical college. The results revealed that students participate in adult learning mainly to fulfill their personal goals related to their lifestyles and aspirations and to increase knowledge as well as to fill in idle time.

Zimbabwe Journal of Educational Research Vol. 17 (1) March 2005: pp. 69–79