There is a dearth of knowledge regarding how self-directed learning and inclusion relate as concepts. In this paper, we explore how self-directed learning and inclusion are discussed together in the educational literature. With the aim of advancing our conceptual and theoretical understanding in this regard, we present the findings of a systematic…

This paper considers the position of Further Education (FE) in the light of the analysis undertaken by Geoff Mason (this issue). It argues that despite great optimism as to the potential of FE to raise productivity and enhance social mobility this has not been achieved due to underfunding and the current system of governance. Without bold moves in…

Cooperative Extension strives to provide agricultural producers with non-formal educational opportunities designed to positively impact agriculture (NIFA, 2021). Therefore, a team of Extension professionals at the University of Nebraska -- Lincoln developed and facilitate an ongoing professional development program designed to enhance the…

Learning and skills contribute to economic growth both directly, by improving the skills base available to employers, and indirectly, by underpinning the five foundations of productivity identified by the government: ideas, people, infrastructure, business environment, and places. This is the case for all levels of learning from basic skills to…

This study aims to analyze the effect of lifelong, notably adult and informal, learning experiences on the business capability and productivity of poor women entrepreneurs in rural Indonesia. The measures of entrepreneurial ability of the research subjects were in terms of their engagement, as microcredit receivers, in adult learning processes…

The Department of Defense (DoD), like most very large organizations rightly have concerns over the functionality of their Cybersecurity employees and their ability to perform core duties in a professional manner. To validate this ability, the DoD imposed a mandatory certifications policy based upon positions within the organization. The DoD…

Online and blended learning (OBL) is valued, but it also offers challenges. Literature indicates that OBL can enhance access to education and increase flexibility for students. However, the reported dropout rates indicate that student participation in OBL programmes is a concern. Scientifically valid knowledge about how factors that help students…

According to the 'International Standard Classification of Education' (ISCED), 'Continuing Education' is composed of the 'Continuing Primary and Lower Secondary Adult Education' (ISCED1, ISCED2), followed by the 'Adult Education and Training' System (ISCED3), including an 'Upper Secondary Education System' (ISCED4 and finally, the 'Tertiary…

As the UK's economy grows, in the context of global change, the needs of employers, employees and learners will also change. For the UK to prosper economically, compete internationally, and reduce economic disparities, the UK's skills base will need to be responsive and meet these changing needs. More flexible learning approaches have the…

The UK entered the deepest recession in history in 2020, following a decade of sluggish growth. Coronavirus restrictions led to a sharp rise in unemployment, vacancies plummeted, and millions were furloughed. The pandemic has also accelerated technological change, with increased digitalisation and firms discovering new ways to harness emerging…

We draw on theories of policy enactment to explore the ways in which the situated, material and external contexts and professional cultures in adult literacy in the UK have influenced practitioners. Our analysis of the transnational (OECD, EU) and UK external policy contexts found that skills-related education is prioritised, with a focus on…

Viewed from the perspective of an action verb, and not just as a position occupied by the elite few, positive leadership drives productivity, employee engagement, and performance. Specifically, the field of positive psychology has gained momentum. Its emphasis on personal well being, and constructs like hope, optimism, and a focus on awareness of…

This paper reports the findings of the case study conducted at Schaffner Thailand (ST) factory regarding the application of the ROFO principle coupled with companywide training on the execution of Lean Production (LP) strategy. The case study was motivated by 3 main objectives: 1) to examine the effectiveness of the ROFO principle and companywide…

How can Applied Theatre impact office productivity and employee well-being? A pilot program in NYC presents its discoveries.

This study investigated what log files can reveal about learner behaviour of low- and non-literate adults learning to read for the first time in Finnish as a second language. The participants' reading development was supported by practising in an online training environment. Log files, automatically created user-computer interaction records, were…