Knowledge of the adult learning associations' activities is necessary for considering their function, tasks and constraints in connection with general contribution for adult education and for carrying out a goal-oriented policy for the area.

In order to receive more information of the adult learning associations' activities, and based on this information, suggest political measures in relation to competence, the Ministry of Education and Research has given Vox, Norwegian Agency for Lifelong Learning, henceforth referred to as the awarding authority, the assignment of initiating a research project.

The research project shall provide new knowledge and perspectives in relation to:

— The adult learning associations' functions and distinctive characters as providers of adult education,

— The adult learning associations' activities as well as effects of these,

— Organisation of the adult learning associations' finances.