An assessment of the factors influencing adult learning in Uganda: A case of Functional Adult Literacy Programme in Wakiso District

Abstract

This study assessed the factors affecting adult learning in Uganda taking the case of the Functional Adult Literacy Programme (FALP) in Wakiso District. The factors were conceived as the independent variables while adult learning was conceived as the dependent variable. the study was limited to the three objectives namely: To find out how the institutional framework affects adult learning under FALP in Wakiso District, To examine how the existing strategies affect adult learning under FALP in Wakiso District and To find out the moderator effect of stakeholders opinions on adult learning under FALP implementation in Wakiso District. The study used a case study research design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches because they provide detailed knowledge. The study population was 195 in total while the sample size was 77 and the response rate was 80.5%.The data was analyzed using SPSS version 12.0. The study revealed that in agreement with the transformative learning theory, there is a strong positive relationship between the stakeholders’ opinions and adult learning. In the same way; just as UNESCO emphasizes having all the stakeholders’ participation, it was found that there is a strong positive relationship between the strategies and adult learning under FALP. The study also revealed a strong positive relationship between perceptions and adult learning under FALP. It was therefore concluded that, the institutional framework, the strategies and stakeholders’ opinions affect adult learning under FALP. The study recommends involving all stakeholders at all stages, having in place clear policies and roles, putting in place proper strategies especially motivation of instructors and sensitization of the non literates so that their attitudes are positively influenced.