60 per cent of women claim that they actively seek advice from peers and colleagues about increasing their skills compared to nearly half of men who say they don't, demonstrating the fundamental attitudinal differences between male and female approaches to learning. Could men learn a thing or two from women before they get left behind?
One of the main barriers to adult learning for both men and women is money. The Adult Learning Grant (ALG) has been designed by the LSC to help adults to overcome the financial barriers to learning. ALG allows adult learners up to £30 a week to help with the extra costs that learning can bring.
Dr Linda Papadopoulos whose new book What Men Say, What Women Hear, backs these findings, says: "Socially, the roles of British men and women are becoming increasingly equal, with women claiming their independence both at work and at home, and even the introduction of the house-husband. However, it seems that there is still a significant inconsistency in attitudes to adult learning, where men seem more unwilling to engage with education and training as a means of improving their employability and career prospects."
The research shows that men are less likely to seek advice about their skills, much as they are less likely to go to the doctor or ask for directions when they are lost than women. There is a common trend in men's behaviour that shows a resistance to accepting support and a determined effort to overcome challenges independently, that is seemingly also reflected in men's approach to education and training.
Janet Jackson, Partnership Director at the Learning and Skills Council in the North West, comments:
"It's very interesting to see these differences between the sexes when it comes to adult learning and, even more so, to understand the foundations for such contradictory attitudes. We hope that the Adult Learning Grant can continue to encourage adults to seek training and learning opportunities and over time close the gender gap by offering both men and women the financial support that enables them to return to learning. The grant can be used to help with anything from the cost of books and materials, through to travel costs. Help with childcare costs may also be available."
To find out how a new skill or qualification could benefit your career prospects, discover the many different courses that are available, or find out whether you are eligible for financial support, visit http://www.direct.gov.uk/alg or call 0800 121 8989 today.
