Lifelong Learning Programme Research Articles

Developing Managerial Framework to Cultivate Critical Skills in The South African Automotive Retail Industry

The purpose of this study is to develop managerial framework that could be utilised to cultivate critical skills in the automotive retail industry. This would be achieved by providing a comprehensive literature overview regarding skills development strategies including life-long learning, apprenticeship, and mentorship programmes. The study utilised a qualitative research methodology. Data are collected through face-to-face interviews using an interrogation technique. Data collection process was done in participants’ natural settings, enabling the researcher to develop new knowledge, and understanding of strategic tools that can be utilised to promote skills development of technicians for the automotive retail industry. The findings reveal a strong collaboration between non-technical and technical high schools as well as technical colleges is essential to ensure the quality of skills development in the automotive retail industry is improved, and thereby improve the market pool of skilled young technicians.

MOOCs as Lifelong Learning Programs – The case of University of the Aegean: A preliminary Evaluation

MOOCs as Lifelong Learning Programs – The case of University of the Aegean: A preliminary Evaluation

Unveiling the heterogeneity: How adult student attributes impact their experiences of academic challenges in a pilot lifelong learning program

Unveiling the heterogeneity: How adult student attributes impact their experiences of academic challenges in a pilot lifelong learning program

Organizational Culture and Continuing Education and Training

In today’s economies, lifelong learning has emerged as a crucial driver of economic and social development and growth. However, Bulgaria lags behind other European nations in terms of participation in lifelong learning initiatives. This article delves into the factors that influence continuing education. A field study, involving over one hundred Bulgarian enterprises, revealed that organizational culture plays a pivotal role in shaping corporate investment decisions. Companies that prioritize human capital accumulation through strategic human resource development strategies and practices, and view learning as an essential asset tend to exhibit higher levels of both participation and intensity in lifelong learning programs. These findings align with institutional theory according to which organizational culture significantly impacts investments in lifelong learning. Thus, the paper has significant practical implications for policies related to continuing education and training.

A mechanism of customizing learning programs for older adults’ lifelong learning

AbstractJapan, like many countries, is facing problems with an aging society, and lifelong learning is becoming more and more important. To provide older adults with the opportunity to enroll in lifelong learning programs, it is essential to offer suitable programs. However, designing learning programs for older adults is not easy because they may have various physical and mental conditions. To approach the problem, the authors have proposed a mechanism for personalizing learning programs for older adults. The basic ideas of the mechanism are: (1) omitting unessential steps and (2) suggesting collaboration with others. In this paper, the algorithm and the data structures of the mechanism are explained, and results of experiments are shown.

Effects of Second Language Acquisition on Executive Functioning in Older Adults in France

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the effects of second language acquisition on executive functioning in older adults in France. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Research on second language acquisition in older adults in France indicates that learning a new language can boost cognitive abilities like problem-solving and multitasking. It enhances memory retention and cognitive flexibility, vital for maintaining mental acuity. Language learning stimulates brain regions linked to executive functions, potentially reducing cognitive decline and offering protective benefits against neurodegenerative diseases in aging populations. These findings highlight the cognitive advantages of bilingualism among older adults in France. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Bilingual advantage hypothesis, cognitive reserve theory & neuroplasticity theory may be used to anchor future studies on the effects of second language acquisition on executive functioning in older adults in France. Encourage lifelong learning programs that include SLA courses for older adults in France. Advocate for the inclusion of SLA programs in public health initiatives aimed at promoting cognitive health among older adults. Policy frameworks should support funding and infrastructure for community-based language learning initiatives.

Empowering Communities through Lifelong Learning: A Case Study of University Initiatives for Social Engagement and Personal Development

Background and Aims: Empowering communities through lifelong learning is critical for personal development and addressing social challenges because it provides individuals with the skills and confidence they need to thrive and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Such empowerment not only improves individual well-being but also increases societal resilience and cohesion. This paper aims to explore university initiatives promoting social engagement and personal development. Methodology: The paper uses a systematic literature review to collect and analyze data on lifelong learning initiatives, drawing on a variety of secondary sources to provide a thorough understanding of their impact. The thematic analysis identifies key patterns and gaps, providing insights into how university programs promote community empowerment and personal development. This methodological approach ensures a thorough assessment of the effectiveness of these educational initiatives. Results: The finding found that Lifelong learning programs have a significant impact on personal development by improving skills, confidence, and career prospects, while also fostering social cohesion and addressing important community issues. These initiatives help individuals navigate changing job markets and make meaningful contributions to their communities, demonstrating their importance in personal and societal development. Conclusion: The findings show that lifelong learning programs are critical for personal development, improving skills and career opportunities, strengthening social bonds, and addressing community challenges. These initiatives are critical to both individual success and societal progress.

ENHANCING LIFELONG LEARNING: A DATA-DRIVEN DASHBOARD APPROACH FOR STRATEGIC DECISION-MAKING AT UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA PAHANG AL-SULTAN ABDULLAH

The purpose of this study was to develop a dashboard with information visualisation for the lifelong learning (LLL) programs at Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) and provide recommendations for UMPSA to improve the strategies and decision-making for future LLL program offerings. This study used the Cross Industry Standard Process for Data Mining (CRISP-DM) model created by the International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) and dashboard development using Microsoft Power BI. The updated database was created by obtaining data from the Institute of Graduate Studies (IPS), UMPSA. Such data was then prepared through the process of selecting, cleaning, constructing, integrating, and formatting data. The dashboard was developed using a database for data visualisation and information in the form of reports. Such information can ensure a better decision-making process and the UMPSA management’s readiness in planning the admission process for future students. However, the data management and data quality at UMPSA must be improved. Future research can expand the present investigation by including data from all categories of LLL students at UMPSA to facilitate a more comprehensive analysis. It will also enable the university management to make accurate decisions about program offerings in the future.

RHETORICAL STRUCTURE OF PRESENTATIONS AT THE ASEAN FEDERATION OF ACCOUNTANTS (AFA) CONFERENCE

Members of the ASEAN accountant community are required to participate in the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programme as part of the lifelong learning program for accountants. One of the activities of the CPD Program is to carry out a conference presentation (CP), whereby presenters discuss issues and offer solutions in accountancy organisations and professional development in the region. This study examined the move structure of the CP presented by professionals who contribute to the development of accounting services, the accountancy profession, and the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). The data consist of 13 conference presentations collected from the ASEAN Federation of Accountants (AFA) conference. The presenters are non-native speakers representing organisations that provide accounting services in the ASEAN region. Data were audio recorded and then transcribed. The findings showed that the presentations contain a structure that discusses the organisation's concerns and solutions for accountancy issues. It includes presenting the background of the study, the need for the proposed solution, describing the solutions, and evaluating the results. This study provides insight into the move structure of a conference presentation in a CPD program. It highlights the professional competence and professional practice of a disciplinary-based CP by accountants in the ASEAN region.

Nurses' Satisfaction with Lifelong Learning Educational Programs and How They Apply New Knowledge in their Daily Nursing Practice

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the degree of satisfaction of nurses who participated in lifelong learning programs and to record the frequency of use of new knowledge in everyday nursing practice. Theoretical Framework: Improving the quality of care and patient safety is a constantly evolving process, and it relies on nurses' active participation in developing knowledge and nursing practice. To fulfill the new requirements of quality, responsibility, and effectiveness of nurses' duties, they must continuously update their understanding, techniques, and developments associated with the profession. Most nurses recognize the need to update their knowledge, and the number of those investing in lifelong learning programs is steadily increasing. However, despite acknowledging the benefits of monitoring these programs, they seem dissatisfied with their quality and content. Method: Two of the most widespread approaches, qualitative and quantitative, were applied. The qualitative approach involved 13 nurses serving in public health structures in Greece. The research tool used was a guide for semi-structured interviews, and the data was processed using the method of thematic analysis. The quantitative approach involved 203 nurses serving in public health structures in Greece. Results and Discussion: According to a study, nurses who participated in lifelong learning programs reported high satisfaction levels regarding the benefits they gained from the courses they attended. However, the study also revealed issues with the organisation and content of the programs, as well as the integration of the new knowledge into their everyday nursing practice. Research Implications: To attain a profound sense of satisfaction, the chosen courses must align with individual interests and offer opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in practical contexts. To enhance the overall understanding of fulfilment, the individuals responsible for designing lifelong learning programs should prioritise hands-on training for nurses based on the latest assimilated knowledge. Originality/Value: This study contributes to assessing the applicability of continuing education in daily work practice. The relevance and value of this research highlights the importance of continuing education for nursing staff in Greece.

VALUE OF INNOVATION IN LIFELONG LEARNING: PEDAGOGICAL AND SOCIAL CONTEXT

The key competences for lifelong learning have become an integral part of social work and the educational process in Ukraine. Therefore, in this review, we focused on the theoretical aspects of the developed strategies for implementing the competence framework for lifelong learning that are based on the fundamental international documents; analysed the value of this approach for the country's development in general and in specific aspects (based on research and information on the efficiency of implemented projects in this area that are publicly available); and provided a detailed review of the main proposals for the implementation of lifelong learning programmes in the public sector, project activities, and other relevant measures. This made it possible to analyse the main directions of implementation of the relevant state policy, their compliance with the standards and vector of lifelong learning development in international practice, as well as to identify problems and prospects for the development of the Ukrainian state strategy for lifelong learning.

BUILDING PEOPLE’S RESILIENCE: SUPPORT MECHANISMS AND POST-RETIREMENT WELL-BEING OF RETIREES IN LAGOS STATE

This study examined the support mechanisms that are available to enhance the post-retirement well-being of Lagos State Civil Service retirees. Using the descriptive survey research design and the purposive/snowball sampling technique, 671 retirees were selected as respondents for this study. Collected and collated data were analyzed using descriptive statistical techniques such as tables, frequencies, and bar charts. Four research questions were stated and findings from research question one revealed that the challenges faced by Lagos State Civil Service retirees encompass financial insecurity, health deterioration, loss of routine, emotional adjustment, lack of purpose, and social isolation. Equally, research question two found that most retirees rely strongly on pensions for financial security. Research question three brought to the fore that 98.4% of the respondents observed that the existing support mechanisms during the transition to retirement are not adequate at all, and research question four indicated that retirees want assistance in financial planning, improved healthcare, lifelong learning opportunities, a centralized information portal, active feedback mechanisms, and housing assistance. Based on these findings, this study concludes that the current support mechanisms are grossly inadequate underscores a critical gap between provided services and the actual needs of the retired populace. Thus, the study recommends amongst others that the Lagos State Civil Service should implement a multi-faceted approach that addresses the diverse needs (i.e., financial education, healthcare accessibility, mental health and social reintegration services, lifelong learning, and volunteer programmes and centralized information portal) of its retirees.

An Al-BERT-Bi-GRU-LDA algorithm for negative sentiment analysis on Bilibili comments

The number of online self-learning users has been increasing due to the promotion of various lifelong learning programs. Unstructured commentary text related to their real learning experience regarding the learning process is generally published by users to show their opinions and complaints. The article aims to utilize the dataset of real text comments of 10 high school mathematics courses participated by high school students in the Bilibili platform and construct a hybrid algorithm called the Artificial Intelligence-Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) + Bidirectional Gated Recurrent Unit (BiGRU) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) to crunch data and extract their sentiments. A series of tests regarding algorithm comparison were conducted on the educational review datasets. Comparative analysis found that the proposed algorithm achieves higher precision and lower loss rates than other alternative algorithms. Meanwhile, the loss ratio of the proposed algorithm was kept at a low level. At the topic mining level, the topic clustering of negative comments found that the barrage content was very messy and the complexity of the course content was generally reported by the students. Some problems related to videos were also mentioned. The outcomes are promising that the fundamental issues underlined by the students can be effectively resolved to improve curriculum and teaching quality.

Employment and occupational prospects and Lifelong Learning in Greece

The present paper addresses employment and occupational prospects in Greece, in the period 2011-2022, highlighting the dynamic, stagnant and declining occupations and it also addresses employment and occupational prospects in the near future (2022-2030). The role that Lifelong Learning can play in an environment of abrupt changes is also discussed. The study reveals that in the period 2011-2022, the total employment rates in Greece increased by 1.0%, with the creation of 43,002 new jobs. A large number of jobs was created for general and keyboard clerks, health professionals and information and communication technology professionals but on the other hand, a large number of jobs were destructed. Therefore, the employment and occupational prospects in Greece in the near future require further attention. The estimates presented in this paper concern the time period 2022-2030, in a two-digit occupation code and they are derived from the application of the Oxford model (Oxford Global Economic Model - GEM), which is managed by NKUA, in the framework of its eLearning program. In this time period, according to relevant estimates, the total employment rates in Greece are expected to decrease by 3.4%, with a loss of 143,998 jobs in total. This negative development, that is expected to take place in an environment of increased production (estimates of the Oxford model), indicate a paradox that is a period of economic growth which is not followed by the creation of new jobs (jobless growth). In light of this evidence, employment and occupational prospects and Lifelong learning are interlinked and often considered a favored topic for researchers, practitioners, policy makers and politicians. As occupations, dynamic, stagnant or declining, include certain tasks and skills, their evolution (and mainly in the dynamic ones) provide the necessary information areas in which long term strategy of Lifelong Learning should target. However, there seems to be a distance between policy, strategy and action. The paper suggests a more careful mapping of the job market, the lifelong learning programmes and the trainees’ prospective profiles. It also addresses the need to focus on those who rarely participate in lifelong learning programmes and are considered to also be the dropout rates from formal educational processes.

Characteristics and cognition of older adults engaged in lifelong learning

ABSTRACT Lifelong learning programs for older adults are suggested as a promising strategy to promote successful and active aging. This observational study utilized cross-sectional data from a nationwide survey administered to adults aged 65 and older who were recruited through nine Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLI). Data collected included general demographics, and measures of physical and mental health, cognitive ability, meaning and purpose, cognitive reserve, and successful aging. Descriptive characteristics of the population revealed a predominantly White, female population, the majority of whom were married, retired, and reported high levels of educational attainment. Participants reported high levels of physical and mental health, and meaning and purpose as measured by PROMIS® measures. High levels of cognitive reserve, self-reported cognitive ability, and successful aging were also found in this sample. Using references to the general aging adult population comparative analyses found OLLI participants reported significantly higher physical health and mental health, and cognitive reserve scores. This study provides additional context for understanding characteristics of older adults who are cognitively aging well.

평생학습에 참여하는 성인학습자의 성장과정에 대한 질적연구

The purpose of this study is to investigate the growth and changes of common adult learners after their participation in lifelong learning. For this purpose, the investigator conducted a focus group interview(FGI) with 9 adult learners that were active to participate in lifelong learning programs in the community. As a result, they were participated to lifelong learning with different opportunities, participated in a variety of lifelong learning programs with curiosity and expectations, and conducted their own inquiry little by little. In the process, they got to recognize the areas of learning that met their interests and needs and get immersed in certain areas of learning. Being persistent with their lifelong learning, they enhanced their own competencies and professionalism and grew into maturer learners by a notch. In other words, adult learners that used to students grew and became the subjects to plan or lead a lifelong learning program for others and the community. They also grew into self-directed lifelong learners based on the fusion of life and learning, identifying the learning topics needed in their lives sensitively, exploring learning information linked to them efficiently, making achievements through active participation, and changing their lives by practicing outcomes. Like this, adult learners were growing through their participation in lifelong learning from ‘Participate in lifelong learning’ through ‘exploring learners’ and ‘Growing learners(community-oriented or individual-oriented)’. Based on the growth and changing process of adult learners specifically examined in the study, the investigator proposed differentiating supportive measures at the levels of lifelong educators and lifelong learning.

A 360<sup>0</sup> scan of primary care in Flanders: what is needed and how to address challenges to build a strong primary care.

The primary care (PC) in Flanders is going through a transition to realize integrated care (IC).
 Artevelde University of Applied Sciences (AUAS), as knowledge institution, wants to contribute to a strong PC and undertook a needs analysis incorporating the problems PC-actors are facing and the support AUAS could offer.
 A stakeholder mapping (e.g. care, welfare actors at micro-, meso- and macrolevel) was executed. 44 in dept interviews were conducted. After data-analyze, a member check (n=17) took place, followed by validation by the Flemish Patient Organization representing the person with care and support need, the Flemish Institute for PC, and the King Baudouin Foundation, a philanthropy organization.
 Key is the paradigm shift from supply-led care to person-centered care. Transformation towards IC encompasses various dimensions of integration: clinical, service, functional and organizational (Lewis et al.). Our findings showed obstacles on those dimensions. At the clinical level, care professionals and providers stressed the need for shared guidelines and protocols. At the service level, implementation of IC-services through interdisciplinary teams is hampered. Professionals do not know each other or what to expect, since they are mainly organized in ad hoc or fluid teams, hampering good collaboration. Participants indicated at the functional level the lacking of an integrated, patient-centered electronic record.Integration of organizations is still ongoing. Different obstacles within and without the sphere of influence of an organization were brought up, e.g., the current legal and financial framework.
 The participants indicated that both the PC- sector as well as education, research and policy hold a piece of the puzzle to facilitate the different forms of cooperation. 
 They reached out to educational institutions to coordinate their educational and lifelong learning programs more co-creatively and flexible. Basic courses should work on interdisciplinary courses to promote cooperation later in the field. There is a need for further development of the so-called t-shaped professional, a professional with skills and expertise in a single field, but the ability to collaborate across disciplines with experts in other areas and to apply knowledge in areas of expertise other than one's own.
 Lifelong learning should work out multidisciplinary education courses targeting broad topics and develop a tailor-made offer, including coaching of PC actors, organizations, and networks. 
 They also called for more cooperation between PC and research. Research must be tailor-mode and needs to speed-up. Support in all forms and phases of research is wanted. A willingness to work together as equal partners from scratch is formulated. Co-creation and transfer of research competence are key. In addition, mandate is given to researchers to report results to policy.
 Based on those findings AUAS is working together with PC to develop an ""academic collaborative center (ACC)"" a sustainably funded collaboration between end users, science, care practice and education with complete equality between partners. Central is co-creation with intensive and equal collaboration between various stakeholders, creating scientific knowledge in which the perspectives of the end users are central (f.i. implementation of IC in PC) and creating societal impact (improve quality of care) are ambitions that are intertwined.
 
 

ENGAGEMENT OR ENJOYMENT? ATTITUDES OF OLDER ADULTS IN GROUP LUNCH VERSUS. LIFELONG LEARNING PROGRAMS

Abstract Purpose This study examines aging attitudes among older adults who participated in the neighborhood lunch (NLP) and lifelong learning (LLP) programs. Methods Older adults from an NLP and an LLP in the same county in Florida participated. An aging attitudes measurement originally developed by German researchers was used. Results A total of 193 older adults participated, 43% from NLP. The mean age was 73.2 (SD=7.78) years. Data showed that LLP older adults endorsed higher on “would like to have responsibilities,” “have a task,” “do unpaid volunteer work,” and “help others” (p<.001). NLP participants, on the other hand, endorsed higher on “no longer have to contribute to society,” “want to enjoy life,” and “finally want to rest and relax” (all p<.001). Exploratory factor analyses (EFAs) using principal component extraction methods and varimax rotation with Kaiser normalization showed a clear balanced 2-factor pattern, with total variance explained 60% (30% each). These two factors were consistent with the theory representing engagement versus enjoyment aging attitudes. Reliabilities of the two-factor scales were satisfactory, with Cronbach’s alpha of .764 (CITC ranged: .457 ~ .660) for the engagement scale (4-item) and.634 (CITC ranged: .379~.499) for the enjoyment scale (3-item). Discussion Current findings showed that LLP participants endorsed higher engagement, while NLP participants endorsed higher enjoyment towards aging. This tested aging attitudes scale consists of 7 items with two clear theory-consistent factors among community-dwelling older adults. Results can help researchers quickly assess aging attitudes of diverse groups of older adults for tailored program and service development.

CONNECTING COMMUNITIES: ROLES OF AGING ATTITUDES, PLACE ATTACHMENT, AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING

Abstract As the global population ages, communities must find innovative ways to support older adults. This symposium focuses on the intersections of aging, community, and culture, particularly emphasizing the importance of place attachment, aging attitudes, psychological well-being, and engagement in promoting healthy aging. Leading experts from social gerontology, psychology, and public health across the globe will explore the complex relationships between aging, community, and culture. Drs. HM Chen from Texas A&M University–Central Texas (TAMCT) and Hou from the University of Central Florida (UCF) from the United States will start the symposium with a systematic literature review on culture and aging in the community among Chinese older adults. Drs. JJ Chen and Liu from the National Cheng-Kung University (NCKU) will examine the mediating effect of psychological place attachment, how older adults perceive their living environments, and (positive versus negative) attitudes towards aging and psychological well-being. Dr. Hou from UCF will further assess aging attitudes (engagement versus enjoyment) among older adults participating in neighborhood lunch versus lifelong learning programs to discuss the implications of tailored aging service development. Finally, Drs. Lin and Fung from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) will discuss the association between activity diversity and psychological well-being among community-dwelling older adults in Hong Kong. Through interdisciplinary dialogue and sharing of lessons learned, this global symposium promotes a deeper understanding of the roles of aging attitudes, place attachment, culture, and psychological well-being among older adults to foster innovative approaches to promoting healthy aging and community engagement. This is an Aging Among Asians Interest Group Sponsored Symposium. This is a collaborative symposium between the Aging Among Asians and International Comparisons of Healthy Aging Interest Groups.

Information needs and information-seeking behavior of visual artists: a systematic review of the literature

PurposeInformation makes an important contribution to the promotion of the creativity of visual artists. This work aims to explore relevant research through a systematic review of the literature and discuss the impact of information on visual artists' creativity.Design/methodology/approachA systematic literature review was conducted through Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses method. The authors searched and retrieved 1,320 papers from which, after evaluation, 41 papers have been analyzed.FindingsTwo thematic categories were identified for visual artists' information needs: (1) the need for professional development and (2) the need for creative techniques and materials. In terms of information sources visual artists employ, the authors have also identified seven broad categories: (1) conventional resources (galleries, museums, etc.), (2) professional scholar sources, (3) digital art websites, (4) informal information online and colleagues, (5) libraries, (6) personal collections and (7) professional scholar social networks. In addition, the study proceeded to classify the obstacles faced by visual artists in their search for visual information into two general categories: (1) environmental barriers and (2) digital literacy barriers.Originality/valueAlthough the investigation of the information needs satisfaction of visual artists as well as the evaluation of their information behavior patterns and information literacy competences is essential, it is understudied. This paper summarizes the relevant literature in a concrete and systematic way providing evidences to be considered in a variety of situations, i.e. developing lifelong learning programs, managing visual art library collections, library services development for artists, etc.