Adult learning choices: from concept to evidence - an informed method and useful data emerges beyond planning

This presentation provides insights into the ways in which a qualitative approach to researching adult choices has been developed, implemented and then redesigned such that meaningful data can be gathered and useful outcomes achieved over a seven year project. This project provided ample room for changing and emergent, sometimes conflicting ideas. Formulating a sound approach to gathering the data has been challenging for the researcher, not least due to significant shifts in thinking and understanding as the journey progressed, data emerged across the three data gathering phases and analysis continued. In this consideration of Adult Learning Choice Making, the researcher has been immersed in the development of an idea, the conceptual design of a meaningful project and data gathering using a combination of interviews, graphical data representation for participant feedback and the collection of some independently developed participant written artefacts. With each evolving stage, the quality and relevance of the data appears to have improved and thereby enhanced the researcher's understanding and ability to address the research questions and objectives. The last data gathering phase of this project was concluded in quarter one 2019. As such, the presenter seeks to share meaningful insights into how adult learning choices can be made, while reflecting on how methods evolve in long term projects.