Learners - who called us that?

Over the last 10-15 years the term student has gradually been replaced with 'learners' -not happened in schools or universities and this has led some adult 'learners' to ask 'why?'.

Historically the WEA has used the term students. However, 'learners' is pretty solidly what government, inspectors and funders call the recipients of provision in the Learning Age. But what do adults on courses call themselves when they talk to friends, family or colleagues about their course? I find it hard to believe they say 'I'm a learner'.

Some WEA learners have clearly given this some thought. Here is a poem they wrote on the matter:

Most of the time we’re a jolly, hard-working crowd and happy to do our bit for the WEA.  But there’s one thing that gets our goat it’s being labelled “learners” – especially by people who tick boxes and deliver targets.  And of course there’s the paperwork too. That goes without saying.  We try hard not to complain but …

Ever the optimists, rather than moaning and groaning we penned this little ditty (with apologies for the rhyming couplets) dedicated it to WEA students and tutors around the world, had a little chuckle and moved swiftly on …

Ten eager learners

Ten eager learners

All feeling fine

The tutor brought the forms in

Then there were nine

 

Nine eager learners

Waiting for their fate

“Please complete in triplicate”

Then there were eight

 

Eight eager learners

Yes, learning can be heaven

But someone runs a cheaper course

Then there were seven

 

Seven eager learners

One is feeling sick

Performance targets to be met

Then there were six

 

Six eager learners

No-one wants to skive

But up went the course fees

Then there were five

 

Five eager learners

A knock at the door …

In comes Ofsted

Then there were four

 

Four eager learners

Bless the LSC (not!)

One dug her heels in

Then there were three

 

Three eager learners

One named Sue

She couldn’t get to class that day

Then there were two

 

Two eager learners

Raring for some fun

More forms landed

And then there was one

 

One eager learner

Sitting all alone

Why not call us people?

I might as well go home