"In 2012," European Union Member States committed to implement policies for the "Validation of Nonformal and Informal Learning" (VNFIL). In this article, we examine Austria and Italy and ask how VNFIL policies in these two countries relate to "informal learning" (IL) and how this can be interpreted from a…

This systematic review investigated the contexts, critiques, and challenges of using heutagogy (Hase & Kenyon, 2000), an emerging instructional approach that emphasizes the self-determination of learners, to develop lifelong learners. A total of 33 peer-reviewed publications published between 2000 and 2019 were aggregated and synthesized, and…

The article summarizes the findings of a study on adult learning professions in Europe (ALPINE) commissioned by DG Education and Culture. It explores the current professional and social situation of staff in non-vocational adult education in Germany. It describes the structures and organisations of general adult education in Germany and…

There is much skepticism about the concept of lifelong learning within both the educational literature and the literature on work. Certainly, many work arrangements discourage learning, let alone lifelong learning. Nevertheless, there are also work situations in which significant learning occurs. However, even in instances where work arrangements…

Learning throughout working life results from everyday thinking and acting, shaped by work practices. The quality of learning depends on the kinds of activities and interdependencies available. Individuals' ability to maintain vocational practice is shaped by their opportunities for engagement and interaction. (Contains 64 references.) (SK)

In the 1990s, the meaning of lifelong learning has shifted to focus on economic rather than social goals. Current policy issues in the development of a training/learning culture include competency-based training, demand-side responsibility for training, increased emphasis on learning in the workplace and the role of workplace trainers. (Contains…

Article discusses the rationale for policy interest in career development services and how this is being strengthened by the current transformations in work and career climates. Explores the potential roles of public policy in relation to career development services. Discusses the range of policy issues related to making career development…

Marsick and Watkins, leaders in research on informal learning in the workplace, suggest that this type of learning is a process that occurs in everyday experience and place it in a category that includes incidental learning. It may occur in institutions, but is not typically classroom-based or highly structured. It is unique to the individual, and…

Employment prospects for young adults over the next 15 years are summarized, with focus on fewer employment opportunities, more changes in work content and organization, and intense competition. Adaptability and capacity to transfer skills are seen to be of increasing importance. (MLW)

In this paper we address a perceived gap in the workplace learning literature, for there is very little writing which successfully integrates the issues of individual learners into predominantly social theories of learning. The paper draws upon data from four linked research projects to address this problem. Following an analysis of the…

Schooling's concern with certification and age segregation distinguish it from educational work. Considering education as a special form of work allows for a broader interpretation of appropriate educational settings in viewing educational work as a lifelong process allowing people of all ages to be involved in significant work experiences. (AF)

As part of a study on the impact of automation on training, extensive interviews were conducted at two of Fiat's plants, Termoli and Casino, Italy. Termoli, a plant built in the mid-1980s with automation in mind, production of engines and gear boxes was very much integrated by automation devices. Casino produced some individual components but was…

Western enterprises confront an era of global competition in which industry leaders can no longer overlook negative effects originating from past Taylorist and autocratic organizational structures. Corporate leaders are exploring innovative methods to change their organizations from the Taylorist model to workplace environments that foster worker…

Technology is having a definite impact on the workplace. Although workers in the fields of health care, administration, manufacturing, and electronics are all expected to exhibit industry-specific competencies, they must also master a similar set of technology-related competencies. This is especially true with respect to using technology to…

The concept of the free agent learner, which has roots in self-directed and informal learning theory, has recently emerged as a factor important to attracting, developing, and keeping knowledge workers. The literature on free agent learning holds important lessons for today's free agent learners, human resource developers, and work organizations.…