The ACA action research project was managed by Lancaster University's Community Access Programme (CAP, now known as REAP) and was initiated in 1995 with the specific remit of developing 'black' perspective courses in community locations under a university ethos of encouraging critical thought and analysis. It was funded by Lancashire County Council's Adult & Continuing Education. The project encouraged the employment of role model and community based co-ordinators and tutors who developed provision specifically for minority ethnic communities in East Lancashire and Preston. Where possible these courses were organised in partnership with local providers with a view to raising community awareness of educational opportunities and encouraging progression into mainstream or higher level community provision.