Lifelong Learning Policies and Higher Education in Europe and Spain

Abstract

This paper describes and analyzes the set of increasing policies related to lifelong learning in Europe and Spain in the last 20 years. Lifelong learning and related concepts ― lifelong education, formal-non formal-informal learning, etc. ― are discussed to clarify and contextualize their use. The contribution of higher education to lifelong learning is specially mentioned. The paper provides an overview of the European strategies and programmes, acknowledging Europe 2020 strategy and its Education and Training 2020 strategy and the Lifelong Learning Programme (2007-2013) and its successor, Erasmus (2014-2020). Spanish policies and conceptions about lifelong learning are pointed out. The case of UNED and its continuing education activities is described. Special mention is devoted to initiatives about open education, framed within lifelong learning actions. Final section remarks some challenges and future steps, such as recognition and accreditation of non-formal, informal and open learning or integration of open education initiatives.