In the context of rapid economic, social, and demographic change, fostering equity and inclusion in third level education is a prerequisite for adaptability, social cohesion, and human development. Community-university collaborations demonstrate significant potential to widen participation in Higher Education (HE). In the following article, we…

Concise, clear and comprehensive snapshots of vocational education and training systems in EU, Iceland and Norway: this is what the Cedefop Spotlight on VET series offers. Building on individual country Spotlights, this publication provides an overview of VET systems with their distinctive qualities, such as main accession and progression routes…

"Delayed participation" in higher education (HE) is an increasingly important feature of modern HE systems in many countries. Despite this, surprisingly little empirical research has been undertaken seeking to better understand levels of delayed adult participation in HE across Europe. The present article responds to this gap by…

This specially themed ""Getting of Wisdom," Learning in Later Life" Edition of the "Australian Journal of Adult Learning" ("AJAL") is not so much concerned with the issue of ageing itself, but more about quality of life regardless of age. It is about taking, but also giving back as best as possible at any…

UNESCO established the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC) to encourage the development of learning cities. By providing technical support, capacity development, and a platform where members can share ideas on policies and best practice, this international exchange network helps urban communities create thriving learning cities. The…

Ireland and the European Union have to accommodate difference not just in theory but in lived reality. For many people that means making themselves think and act differently, for they no longer have the complacency that comes from living in a homogeneous environment but the challenge of living in a heterogeneous environment where their rights are…

Adult learners, and women in particular, have to combat a number of specific barriers to participate in lifelong learning opportunities. Frequently, delivery modes of adult learning programmes do not take these varying demands into consideration (McCulloch & Stokes, 2008). However, when they do, positive results ensue. This case study…

In this article, the author talks about power, pleasure and community in a learning society. He argues that the resistance against the grand narratives or universal truths of this age is best achieved through the cultivation and development of local narratives and truths which are subject to continuous debate and critical reflection within a…

In January 2007 the Department of Education and Science approached AONTAS about conducting preliminary research into the lifelong learning needs of older people in Ireland. The findings of the research will be submitted to inform the Department's plans to address the educational needs of older people. In drafting this discussion paper, AONTAS has…

This paper examines the relationship between literacy, equality and creativity and the relevance for adult literacy practices. It looks in particular at how literacy tutors can use creative non-text methods to promote an understanding of equality in learners' lives. Through an examination of the findings from the Literacy and Equality in Irish…

Currently, in the field of guidance, relevant stakeholders including guidance practitioners, educators and policy makers, have identified progression for adults in education and employment as one of the key outcomes of educational guidance. Lifelong guidance is now inextricably linked with lifelong learning as a mechanism to enhance individual…

Describes a study that looked at keyworkers' (mediators between museums and public) contributions to lifelong learning and to helping members of public overcome cultural exclusion. Reports that field studies were undertaken in the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Ireland. States that the study was used to develop museum policy, to attract public to…

This document presents papers and other information from a 1-day conference that was held to address the issue of gender equity and lifelong learning in Ireland. The proceedings begin with a brief preamble, a summary of the welcome and introductions, and a summary and selected passages of the opening address by Willie O'Dea, the minister of state…

This document contains eight papers from a conference on higher education and the challenge of lifelong learning. "Lifelong Learning" (Garret Fitzgerald) explores issues related to ensuring that all adults have access to lifelong learning. "Lifelong Learning and Higher Education: The International Context" (Alan Wagner)…

In January 2002, Ireland's minister of state announced the establishment of the National Adult Learning Council to take effect in March 2002. One of the council's priorities will be to establish local adult learning boards (LALBs) to oversee development and delivery of adult education. An Irish government white paper recommended that LALBs'…