What is lifelong learning?
Learning is a continuous process, and goes on throughout one's life—hence the term “lifelong” learning. While lifelong learning includes formal, (government administered) accredited education, it also includes non-formal and informal learning. Non-formal learning refers to an organized, educational effort that is outside of the government's educational system. Informal learning is described as
“…lifelong process whereby all individuals acquire attitudes, values, skills and knowledge from daily experience and from the educative influences and resources in their environment” (Ironside, 1989:15).
Lifelong learning is about both personal and collective/community development. Many adult learners develop new skills or gain greater knowledge in an effort to overcome some obstacle, cope with a changed environment or take advantage of an opportunity. In addition to the actual skill or subject matter they are acquiring, these learners are also “problem-solving,” a valuable process which can be transferred to their larger community. As Moreland and Lovett explain (1997):
“Community development and community education are two sides of a process which stresses the links between problem solving, adult learning and participation in finding solutions to modern issues and problems.”
To find out more about Community Development
and Community Organizations that are devoted
to the promotion of lifelong learning and community development, please
visit our links on this site.
What is the relationship between lifelong learning, community development and information and communication technologies?
Too often, there has been simply no relationship! But more and more, a connection, literally and figuratively, is being made between learning, community development and information and communications technologies (ICTs). ICTs can make access to information—project material, archives, web sites—much easier. Through ICTs, networking with others, whether they be teachers, community leaders, or members of your group, can be instantaneous and very convenient. Put together, quick and easy access to information and people can assist in the development of communities by allowing shared knowlege-bases to form. More and more people are using the Internet to both increase their own knowledge and skills, and to help others in their community or to develop the community as a whole. For some interesting examples, check out “The Net Works!”
Finally, do not forget about your Community Access Program (CAP) Site, a place where you and any member of your community can go to access the Internet for free or for a very nominal fee. These CAP sites, are located in libraries, schools, community and youth centres, and can be useful nodes for lifelong learning and community development initiatives. Learn more about CAP sites.