Accessing quality guidance: an evaluation study

Citation

Edwards R & West L (2000) Accessing quality guidance: an evaluation study. Journal of Access and Credit Studies, 2 (1), pp. 58-72.

Abstract
It has long been argued that to widen access to learning opportunities, adults need access to guidance. Increasing attention is being given to questions of the quality of adult guidance. This paper reports on a short evaluation of the impact of the introduction of a quality standards' ‘Award' in one county in England. It focuses on changes in guidance practice, the benefits to users, organisational benefits and staff development issues arising from the ‘Award' process. The study raises questions about the adequacy of portfolio-based approaches in the evaluation of quality and the range of practices and practitioners encompassed by such awards. These issues are important not only for the specific award evaluated but also for quality processes more generally and the role guidance does or can play in access.

Keywords
Access to education and training; Career guidance; Adult learning

Journal
Journal of Access and Credit Studies: Volume 2, Issue 1