Associate ProfessorTrace Ollis

My research focusses on adult learners and learning. I am recognised as an
expert in adult learning, in Australian and internationally. My research and
scholarship is immersed in adult learning communities, in non-government
organisations, and in communities of learners, this has enabled me to build
and sustain long term partnerships with leading organisations in Adult
Learning such as Adult Learning Victoria and Neighbourhood Houses Victoria. I
employ epistemological, ontological and ethical theoretical frames of
'practice' and interpretative methodologies using single and multiple case
studies with adults in a range of vocational learning and community-based
settings. My published works, in national and international journals concern
second chance learners, disengaged learners, adult community education,
professional learning and learning occurring in social movements. 
This research focusses on lifelong learning in Neighbourhood Houses and
transition pathways to Vocational and Higher Education.

My research draws on a broad critical theory, key theorists I draw on:

Paulo Freire, Pierre Bourdieu, critical theory



Knowledge Areas
Dr Trace Ollis is recognised as leading researcher in adult education and has
published widely in Australia and Internationally. She has conducted research
projects on Adult Education in human rights, VET, and ACE with a focus on
lifelong learning.  She has published both in Australia and internationally. Her research focuses on challenging inequality through critical and emancipatory approaches to adult education, widening participation, inclusion, and community action using research with a social justice conceptual framework. The purpose of this research is to improve understandings of what motivates and engages adult learners and how this is
influenced by context, such as desengagement with formal systems of education, informal Adult & Community Education settings (ACE), popular education and social movement learning.