Lifelong learning: Established concepts and evolving values

Area of Science:

• Education
• Sociology
• Health Sciences

Background:

• Lifelong learning (LL) is crucial for navigating societal changes and challenges.
• Existing models of LL often prioritize vocational training or citizenship.
• A comprehensive understanding of LL concepts is essential for its effective implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize key concepts underpinning lifelong learning (LL).
• To explore the value and application of LL in contemporary society.
• To propose a reorientation of LL towards health as a central objective.

Main Methods:

• A synthesis of personal experiences with insights from philosophy, social sciences, educational bodies, governments, and UNESCO.
• Analysis of the fundamental principles and drivers of LL.
• Conceptual framework development for understanding LL's role.

Main Results:

• Lifelong learning (LL) fosters adaptable capacities and portable skills through continuous, self-determined, and often informal or vicarious means.
• LL is driven by societal challenges and can be oriented towards citizenship or, as proposed, health.
• Effective LL requires societal awareness, reflection, and integration with formal learning and personal perspectives.

Conclusions:

• Health is fundamental for rational thought, societal governance, and self-improvement, making it a critical focus for LL.
• Reshaping lifelong learning (LL) to prioritize health over citizenship can enhance societal capacity.
• Embedding LL within societal and environmental contexts, with 'biographicisation' as a key concept, is vital for innovation.