The process of globalization, coupled with the emergence of knowledge-based technology, has necessitated the need for individuals to bolster their skills throughout their adult lives to cope with modern life. The technological universe that has emerged over the last few decades has also triggered the need to learn and adapt new skills through training. Laal (2011) defines lifelong learning as “Education that is diverse, adapted to the individual and available throughout our lives.” It involves the continuous learning and development of the individual. Also, it involves professional development where individuals need to change in sync with the changing times. According to the author, the idea behind lifelong learning is to mitigate the thought that the acquisition of skills can only happen within the realms of the classroom.
Lifelong learning occurs at different stages of life and various places. Laal (2011) explains learning at different stages of life. The author distinguishes learning between children and adults. Children between the age of 0 and 5 engage in foundational learning that prepares them for the future. The learning is largely informal and involves the imitation of behaviors from the parents (Longworth, 2019). Children also make use of their environment as they continue to learn. However, the case is different for adults. The main mode of learning in adults is through experience and solving problems.
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Laal (2011) further intimates that adult learning depends on the continuous development of capabilities, intellect, and integrity, which forms the basis of lifelong learning. Older adults above the age of 60 rely on favorable aspects such as music, art, and sports to bolster their learning. Through community initiatives, they appreciate a great deal of information that improves their learning. Lifelong learning, therefore, does not stop. Most importantly, it can happen inadvertently, consciously, and subconsciously without the active participation of an individual (Longworth, 2019).
References
Laal, M. (2011). Lifelong learning: What does it mean? Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences, 28, 470-474.
Longworth, N. (2019). Making lifelong learning work. Routledge.
