Promoting and Recognising Lifelong Learning: Introduction

Abstract

Currently, there is growing interest worldwide by governments, professional bodies, employers and workers in lifelong learning. This interest particularly relates to the ongoing learning beyond compulsory education and initial occupational preparation: across working life. Much of this interest is driven by key social and economic imperatives associated with sustaining individuals’ employability in the context of changing requirements of work and working life (Billett 2010; Department of Education Science and Training 2002; Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development 2010). This includes the significant transformations occurring within many occupations, and that all of these changes will continue to occur across lengthening working lives (Coffield 2000; Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development 2006). Such demands to sustain employability are placing a premium on ongoing learning through and for work and emphasising the importance of the continuation of learning across working life (Field 2000). However, the concerns associated with lifelong learning are not restricted to work and working life, as there are also those associated with individuals being able to engage in learning about cultural knowledge and social roles and practices that they have not so far had the opportunity to engage with or because their interests have changed across adulthood. For instance, some adults have been disengaged from educational provisions during or on completion of their compulsory education because of unsatisfactory experiences in schools. Despite efforts of moving to a learner-centred approach in education, classroom-based approaches are not the optimal learning environment for these kinds of learners. Recognition of their learning from work experience may assist these individuals re-engage with ongoing education and empower to engage in continuing education and training. These kinds of learning are often seen as being beneficial to personal growth and well-being in retirement.