1. Lifelong Learning
All learning activity undertaken throughout life, with the aim of improving knowledge, skills and competence, within a personal, civic, social and/or employment- related perspective.
European Union

2. Lifelong Learning
Modern Educational policy places a great deal of emphasis on learning for adults
The is a relatively recent development in education
Due to changes in technological, scientific and organisational structures

3. Lifelong Learning
Across the EU, governments are embracing lifelong learning as a way of tackling the challenges of social inclusion and economic competitiveness
Lifelong learning in very important in Northern Ireland, considering it is a regional economy which is vulnerable to competitors elsewhere in Europe

4. Lifelong Learning
Lifelong Learning has not been taken up too much in NI, which is surprising considering that the levels of educational attainment are very high in UK standards, both in Schools and Universities

5. Lifelong Learning
In 2001 and 2003 the Life and Times Survey assessed people’s attitudes to lifelong learning; the following were it’s findings...

6. The Life and Times Survey
Lifelong learning opens up a whole new life
86% of respondents agreed
14% of respondents disagreed

7. The Life and Times Survey
Lifelong learning is only worthwhile if it leads to a new job or a promotion
36% of respondents agreed
51% of respondents disagreed (and felt it was important in and of itself)
13% of respondents don’t know

8. The Life and Times Survey
Lifelong learning should be paid for by the government
73% of respondents agreed
10% of respondents disagreed (it is up to the individual)
17% of respondents don’t know

9. The Life and Times Survey
Schools teach you skills and knowledge needed for later life
30% of respondents agreed
70% of respondents disagreed

10. Summary
Most people in NI have a very positive attitude to lifelong learning
Most people think the government should pay (or help pay) for it
Most people think workers themselves should take responsibility for learning new skills
Most people think school did not help them enough to prepare for real life