Life Long Learning

Lifelong learning is the expanding of knowledge, reinforcing prior skills which are all self motivated. Metacognition (learning about learning) is central to lifelong learning, as the individual discovers learning strategies which work best for themselves. Lifelong learning is particularly relevant to the 21st century as technology is always improving, so certain jobs may need specialised skills to be developed in order to use the new technology. Examples of life long learning is adult education (work or leisure), continuing education (uni, college), learning of knowledge in work (upskilling, reskilling).
According to R Tyler, The Telegraph, the Government are persuading people to part-take in lifelong learning, to fill the skills gap which exists today. Organisations and employers need to push lifelong learning, so that individuals can develop the skills they have, and therefore the need for new skills will be narrowed. I agree that people need to move with the times and technology, and if that means retraining to get a better job, then that's what they should do.  
             One example of lifelong learning, is University of the Third Age. The organisation was set up in 1973. It aims to educate the retired community. From watching the video below on the organisations website, http://www.u3a.org.uk/ I was very interested in finding out more information about it. It gave the impression of a welcoming community, all about teaching and helping each other. I am going to recommend it to my Grandparent, as I feel she would benefit from this stimulating environment. It helps keep the elderly active both physically and mentally, and prevents them from being lonely.

Education during later life can offer many benefits for the elderly, such as:

• it can help the elderly become more independent and self-reliant, therefore reducing the demand on public resources
• can help them to cope with any illness or ailments they may have due to old age 
• strengthens their contributions to society, therefore making them feel part of the community 
• makes the elderly more aware, discover hidden talents, make friends, communicate and gain new experiences 

(Swindell R, Thompson J, 1995) 

In my opinion, U3A is a valuable source of lifelong learning, it provides the elderly an opportunity to prolong their learning, building their confidence and keep an active mind. It also allows individuals to express themselves and give meaning to their lives.

(U3A.org)



However, there may be various barriers to lifelong learning, such as lack of time, especially in working adults. Awareness, not many older people have access to the internet, so may not know about the available activities for them. Also, some maybe put off by the education aspect due to a bad experience in school, or gaining poor qualifications. The disabled may be left out also, due to access or very elderly. Financial issues may also play a part in creating a barrier for some individuals to participate.