Lifelong Learning (Introduction)

Lifelong Learning (Introduction)

Over the next few weeks, I will be discussing the idea of Lifelong Learning, its origins and driving forces. These short articles are based on literature research I carried out last year in the course of my Masters studies at Sydney University.

The concept of Lifelong Learning (LLL) has gained prominence in developed countries in response to the economic, technological, demographic and business changes experienced by these economies beginning in the 1980s and into the 1990s. Although this term (LLL) is presented as relatively new, the concept behind it is much older, having emerged in the 1920s and 1930s under the discourse of “adult education”.

There is now relative agreement about the scope of Lifelong Learning, which is defined broadly in the wider literature as “post-secondary education”. However, in its evolution from the original concept of Adult Education, a number of different perspectives have developed in terms of its fundamental aims.

Different aspects of the discussion around Lifelong Learning in will be covered in progressive blog posts. These will include a historical account of the concept, the main drivers of the current interest in LLL, the current debate amongst the main perspectives on LLL, and the different discourses which are fighting for control over the local and international LLL agenda. I will identify and describe the key issues affecting the Lifelong Learning framework in Australia and the contribution of the voluntary sector to the practice of LLL. But first, let’s set up some definitions and context.

Lifelong learning should be understood as an organising principles to address issues of education and training differently. These principles are that:

a) LLL occurs throughout society and in different contexts (families, communities, workplaces),
b) it affects the lifecycle of the individual,
c) involves formal education and training and informal learning, and
d) LLL can be facilitated by a broad range of agents, networks and partnership. (Kearns: 1999)

The World Initiative on Lifelong Learning (p.5: 1999) provides an interesting definition that encompasses the organising principles described above:

“Lifelong Learning is a continuously supportive process which stimulates and empowers individuals to acquire all the knowledge, values, skills and understanding they will require throughout their lifetimes and to apply them with confidence, creativity and enjoyment in all roles, circumstances, and environments”

In the next few weeks I will be covering the historical background of LLL. Please let me know your thoughts about this issue, specifically on how the concept of lifelong learners applies ( or doesn’t apply) to your work in the sector. You can send me your comments and ideas to miguelf@wscf.org.au

MF