Formation as an organizing framework for the processes of lifelong learning

Abstract

This article introduces formation as an organizing model for lifelong learning and places existing lifelong learning theory into this larger context. Further, in order to demonstrate how this framework might be applied, we suggest a lifelong learning agenda based on formation, which includes intentionality, meta-learning skills, and meta-practices. Meta-learning skills are strategic tools for facilitating lifelong, profound formation, while meta-practices are the strategic implementation of those meta-learning skills. Lifelong learning as continual formation has substructures such as deformation, reformation, and transformation. Profound learning practices lead toward profound living, more broadly described as human flourishing.