CHAPTER 8 - ISSUES, PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS IN A LIFELONG EDUCATION SYSTEM

Abstract

This chapter discusses some of the major issues in the development of systems of lifelong education. The following are the preliminary themes for the development of systems of lifelong education: (1) the broader meaning of education in the context of lifelong education, (2) the relation of lifelong education to society, (3) dangers and problems in systematizing lifelong education, (4) educational services in the context of lifelong education, (5) coordination of educational services, (6) participation in the context of lifelong education, (7) the need for self-directed learning in a lifelong education system, (8) public and private education in the context of lifelong education, (9) equality of educational opportunity, and (10) assessment and quality control in a lifelong education system. Whether the principles of lifelong education really will take hold in educational systems on a worldwide basis remains to be seen. A number of developments already occurring in educational thinking and practice are encouraging to proponents of lifelong education. These include increasing emphasis in educational systems on diversity and flexibility, decreasing emphasis on schools as the only sources of knowledge, growing recognition of the educational value of life experiences, integration of school and work, development of community schools, and many more.