Lifelong Learning

"A comprehensive guide to the context, psychology and methods of learning for the workplace completely revised on the basis of the changing needs of a new decade."

Since the concept of lifelong learning came to prominence much excellent work has been undertaken, but as Professor Longworth's new book shows major change in some areas is still needed if the concept of learning from cradle to grave is to become a true reality. Using his vantage point from consulting with schools, universities, local, governmental and global authorities, Professor Longworth brings the development of lifelong learning up-to-date with a complete survey of the principles of lifelong learning, examples from around the world and crucial information on the impact of lifelong learning on 21st century schools.

"More and better jobs" is the underlying theme of this insightful new book. David Levine analyzes the current labor market in the U.S. and concludes that social policy must change to cope with the realities of the new economy. Although market forces are now moving U.S. enterprise toward high-skill and flexible workplaces, there is a shortage of workers with adequate skills in problem solving and teamwork. To combat this problem, the author presents an ambitious agenda of lifelong learning that will enable American workers to take advantage of the opportunities afforded by the new economic realities. Levine's analysis recommends specific government policies to encourage early childhood education, to improve schools, to help parents finance college, and to help students make the transition from school to work. He also discusses policies that will improve the regulation of workplaces. The book concludes with policy recommendations for individuals changing jobs, as well as for the unemployed, the disabled, and the poor.

Revolutionary information and communication technologies are contributing to dramatic changes in the competitiveness of global and local markets and in the way people conduct their business and everyday lives. The potential benefits and risks these changes present for developing countries and transitional economies are enormous. This comprehensive, authoritative reference book examines the ways in which these powerful technologies are being harnessed to development goals, thus helping to reduce the risk of exclusion and create new opportunities for developing countries. The report emphasizes the urgency of developing new social and technological infrastructures so as to ensure that new technologies are used effectively. It also offers outlines and practical steps intended to guide stake-holders interested in shaping their future innovative knowledge societies.

This up-to-date book reflects the breadth of research into gerontology and analyzes the major themes and issues in the area of aging and social policy, in both an Australian context and from an international perspective. Topics discussed include unemployment, education and housing. Also considered are the influence of multiculturalism and the specific structural disadvantages faced by women and Aboriginal Australians. Essential reading for students and policymakers in sociology, social and public policy, gerontology and public health.

This work examines the important role of learning in maintaining the health, quality of life, and longevity of older adults, and in providing opportunities for them to take on new roles in society. Based on extensive interviews with elderlearners and with learning services providers across the country, Elderlearners includes the results of the first comprehensive survey on the topic of adult learning in men and women over age 55. The authors provide key data on the sources, topics, and extent of the current learning activities of older adults, as well as on their preferred learning modes.

Believing that the primary purpose of professional education is to prepare practitioners, the authors consider variables that affect professional practice. Emphasis is on the key role and techniques of experiential education for effective transfer of learning to practice in medicine, law, social work, and management. Other variables that impact cost and quality of services include cost and length of professional education; specialization, selection, and promotion of faculty; role of research; use of paraprofessionals; and assessment of professioal education.

This very first comprehensive book-length reference guide dealing with older adult education is not only current on theoretical developments but also on the latest programs, policies, and research. It is unique in placing the subject of lifelong learning into historical perspectives, discussing ways in which programs have been transformed over the last 15 to 20 years, and in considering the impact of institutional policies on older adult education. Computer and electronic learning programs, research and programs dealing with intergenerational education, and future prospects in the field are surveyed also. Appendixes describe important organizations, programs, sources of information, state tuition waiver policies, and other guidelines and data. Relevant statistics, research findings, numerous tables, original documents, and anecdotes relating experiences of older learners further enrich this state-of-the-discipline reference guide for academic, professional, and public libraries and broad audiences of teachers, students, professionals, and general readers concerned with education and older adults.