Developing a peak body for lifelong learning in Queensland

This project was about assisting the Lifelong Learning Council Queensland Inc (LLCQ) to establish itself as a state-wide peak body for Adult and Community Education (ACE). It investigated the conditions, forces and influences that impacted on the establishment of the LLCQ and developed strategies to overcome problems and to maximise the effectiveness of available resources. Contextual influences investigated as part of the study included social, political, economic and technological dimensions. The project reviewed the underpinning concepts and related literature and gathered data from ACE practitioners using an Appreciative Inquiry approach. Members of the LLCQ Advisory Committee validated the data in an Action Foresight Learning Circle. From this information, the researcher developed alternative organisational models, future scenarios and enabling strategies that were presented to the LLCQ for consideration at its 2004 Strategic Planning Workshop. Projects aims The broad aims for establishing the peak body were as follows. Promote the importance of ACE as an integral part of lifelong learning at a time of major social and economic change, and increase participation in lifelong learning in all its forms. Develop an advocacy mechanism for ACE and lifelong learning in Queensland to assist in developing a collective voice for learners and providers. providers. Decentralise the LLCQ and develop state-wide decision making processes. Help identify and assess the needs of ACE learners and providers in their local communities. Provide feedback about ACE and lifelong learning from the communities to appropriate agencies at the state level and via formal advisory structures such as the Training and Employment Board. Assist with organising professional development for providers. Secure an on-going funding base. Promote the integration and coordination of ACE activities already happening in local environments to develop the notion of a learning community. Project outcomes At the end of the project LLCQ will have achieved the following outcomes. Grown from an organisation with the majority of its membership based in Brisbane to a networked organisation linking members and communities of practice in all parts of the state. Established between five and ten branches across the state. Launched its own website. Developed an on-line directory of ACE providers. Secured an on -going income stream to fund its operations.