Lifelong learning: an educational and economic necessity - Ness Labs

Lifelong learning extends beyond formal adult education.

• Online courses. Lifelong learners have access to educational material from the best sources through independent educators and established institutions alike.
• Knowledge work. Knowledge workers often use self-directed learning to acquire the knowledge they need to stay ahead.
• Personal learning environments. Many adults are choosing to design their own learning using a note-taking app or joining learning communities.

Lifelong learning often requires to switch from a pedagogical (instructor-driven) to an andragogical (adult-driven) approach.

• Decide on a learning goal. Focus on one or two goals at a time.
• Map out your learning constraints. Find out what is available out there, if it will fit your budget and your time available.
• Design your learning environment. Choose a course, a book, a tutor or another way. The most important step is to get started, then tweak as you go.
• Practice metacognition to understand where you could make improvements.
• Make it enjoyable.