Lifelong learning concerns learning opportunities at all ages, whether in formal or informal contexts, at work, at home, or during leisure time. Lifelong learning is promoted by the European Union as the core strategy to reach the goal of the 2000 Lisbon agenda. By 2010, Europe should become the most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based economy in the world, capable of sustainable economic growth with more and better jobs and greater social cohesion. The UK has taken a leading role in promoting lifelong-learning opportunities to its citizens, resulting in a range of policies, experiences, and an infrastructure of provision from which there are valuable lessons to learn.

Chaired by Charles Jennings, Global Head of Learning at Reuters, the programme features keynotes by representatives from JISC, the British Learning Association (BLA), the National Centre for Work Based Learning Partnerships from Middlesex University, and the British Educational Communications Technology Agency (BECTA). Case studies will be presented by learning providers such as Microsoft UK, MyKnowledgeMap, and the Open Learning Centre International.


Successful delivery of lifelong learning depends on strong and effective relationships with many partners. The pre-conference forum at ONLINE EDUCA BERLIN offers participants opportunities to learn more about policies and recent initiatives for lifelong learning in the UK, as well as how ICT is being embedded in national and regional lifelong learning strategies. The forum is a unique opportunity to become acquainted with important stakeholders and to join the network driving the UK education market.