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1 – 10 of 151
Open Access
Article
Publication date: 13 June 2024

Michael D. Smith, Ran Niboshi, Christopher Samuell and Simon F.N. Timms

Drawing primarily on the Japanese context, this study aims to highlight this setting to emphasise the potential for tertiary-level self-access language centres to develop lifelong…

Abstract

Purpose

Drawing primarily on the Japanese context, this study aims to highlight this setting to emphasise the potential for tertiary-level self-access language centres to develop lifelong global citizenship, self-reflection and cross-cultural collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

This inquiry calls on the community of practice approach to account for the shared interests motivating lifelong cross-cultural participation, the quality of social engagement between actors, and the material and cognitive tools called upon to realise global citizenship’s shared enterprise.

Findings

As argued here, embracing various cultures and inclusive participation can lead to a broader understanding of global citizenship, avoiding narrow-minded views of globalism through shared knowledge and critical practices. Further, self-access provides a cost-effective, technology-mediated alternative to bilateral student mobility, whereby digital community-building occasions cross-cultural practice that may be extended throughout a learner’s life, irrespective of their financial status or place of study.

Originality/value

This study is one of a select few drawing on the community of practice framework within the context of lifelong global citizenship. Nevertheless, such an approach remains primed for future development. With a social constructivist philosophy in view, the authors suggest complementary qualitative research approaches that highlight the socially situated nature of both disciplines.

Details

Quality Education for All, vol. 1 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2976-9310

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 11 June 2024

Michal Ganz Meishar

This study aims to examine the contribution of informal encounters outside the school walls between local Israeli families from “Waldorf Education” and immigrant families from…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the contribution of informal encounters outside the school walls between local Israeli families from “Waldorf Education” and immigrant families from Africa from formal state education and explore the consequences of these encounters on the development of lifelong learning competences. Research questions are as follows: In what way do non-formal encounters lead to the development of lifelong learning ability? What are the challenges and consequences of non-formal activity for research participants, families and educators from the pedagogical, social and personal perspectives?

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a qualitative-interpretive case study approach that allows for in-depth observation of the phenomenon within the context of reality to understand the case, a non-formal encounter between two groups of parents from different cultures, languages and educational attitudes. In this case study, it is possible to generalize from the local to the global and examine processes, actions and behaviors in the studied case (Creswell et al., 2018; Yin, 2009). This empirical study allows description, analysis, understanding and explanation of the challenges and actions in organizing and holding non-formal encounters from personal experiences as a first source.

Findings

The analysis of the data brought up two main categories that represent the actions and insights from the non-formal encounters for developing lifelong learning competences: create a personal dialogue to strengthen trust and confidence; foster parental involvement. Non-formal encounters between families from different cultural-social backgrounds may promote lifelong learning competences such as tolerance, inclusion and openness. However, external intervention by a social association is required to organize, support and operate them.

Research limitations/implications

The research’s limitation was that it was conducted in the country’s center. Therefore, the findings must be considered in the context in which they are presented and not generalized to other regions or communities from other cultures in Israel and the world. A few limited encounters may affect the author’s interpretation of the study data. In addition, expressions of “social desire” that may be expressed in interviews must be considered.

Practical implications

This study emphasizes social activism. Despite all the differences and tensions, creating an equal space in the families’ encounters is essential for lifelong learning. The immigrant parents participated in decision-making, the stages of organization and the activities themselves during the encounters. This partnership strengthened their commitment and responsibility. Because they are a powerless minority group, it should not be assumed that two encounters will improve their self-confidence. The proof is that fewer participants came to the last encounter. Education experts must maintain consistency and continuity in forming partnerships with immigrant families over time and as part of lifelong learning.

Social implications

The non-formal encounters between the two groups of families create an atmosphere of equality: all are parents of children seeking to inculcate humane and social values. The collaborative atmosphere contributed to the understanding that closeness overpowers distance. Everyone is troubled by similar issues of parenting, enjoyment of children, nutritious food and a shared desire to be good citizens while maintaining tolerance, reciprocity and respect.

Originality/value

Non-formal encounters are actively performed to create belonging when the “others and we” join together for the community and the children. This is an extensive, open and accessible platform for strengthening social consciousness and understanding the connection between teaching, culture and society to promote equality in education. This study will allow schools to expand the boundaries of communication with parents and initiate additional activities with other social groups to foster children’s integration. It will enrich the academic knowledge about connections and communication of educators, families from Israel and immigrant families in developing a partnership in the school to promote lifelong learning.

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 22 July 2024

Yaw Owusu-Agyeman

As universities find new ways to implement professional development programmes (PDPs), very few scholarly studies have focused on how lifelong learning could serve as a tool to…

Abstract

Purpose

As universities find new ways to implement professional development programmes (PDPs), very few scholarly studies have focused on how lifelong learning could serve as a tool to enhance the professional development of staff. To address this knowledge gap, this study aims to examine how the integration of lifelong learning modes into PDPs in a university setting in South Africa could enable professional staff to advance their knowledge and skills. Additionally, the study explores how the different PDPs could be conceptualised by way of lifelong learning to enhance the professional knowledge and competences of staff.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from 41 professional staff in three campuses of the university. The narrative data gathered were evaluated using thematic analysis that consisted of a detailed process of identifying, analysing, organising, describing and reporting the themes that were generated from the data.

Findings

Findings suggest that when the university integrates lifelong learning approaches into its professional development programmes, it allows staff to develop their knowledge and skills through diverse learning approaches. When institutions adopt these diverse learning approaches, it enable staff to situate their learning needs along the different lifelong learning modes, negotiate suitable learning modes and flexible schedules with their heads of department, and learn the accepted norms and values of the university. These findings among others lead to further questions about how PDPs could be designed using the three lifelong learning modes to enable staff to prepare adequately for the future of work in higher education.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the scholarly discourse on lifelong learning by showing how higher education institutions could design PDPs along formal, informal and non-formal learning approaches to enhance the knowledge and skills of staff.

Details

Quality Education for All, vol. 1 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2976-9310

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 5 July 2024

Nur Hanisfatin Rushami Zien, Nurul Azma Abu Bakar and Rohaizah Saad

The concept of lifelong learning and learning culture in education generally refers to the continuous acquisition of knowledge and skills throughout one's life, extending beyond…

Abstract

Purpose

The concept of lifelong learning and learning culture in education generally refers to the continuous acquisition of knowledge and skills throughout one's life, extending beyond formal education while learning culture is the creation of learning opportunities, resources and support systems that empower individuals to continuously enhance their knowledge and skills. Lifelong learning and a learning culture contribute significantly to the realization of SDG 4 by promoting inclusive, equitable and quality education that prepares individuals for a lifetime of learning and adaptation in a changing world. This paper aims to identify the level of understanding of school’s community regarding these concepts and measuring the implementation level and readiness of primary schools across Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a mixed-methods approach, the initial qualitative phase involved interviewing teachers to know their level of understanding regarding the concept of lifelong learning and learning culture. The subsequent quantitative phase assessed the readiness and implementation level of 35 primary schools across Malaysia.

Findings

An interview that been done has successfully collected the viewpoints of teachers about lifelong learning and learning culture. A survey administered to primary schools affiliated with the MUSLEH organization affirmed the readiness and implementation level of schools in which it was found that most of the schools has high degree of awareness and understanding regarding the significance of the concepts to be implemented in the education system.

Originality/value

This study's contributions extend beyond academia, offering insights for educators and policymakers alike. The findings can inform education ministries, curriculum developers and stakeholders, aiding them in providing substantial support to educators aligning with the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

Details

Quality Education for All, vol. 1 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2976-9310

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 1 July 2024

Md Jahangir Alam, Md Abul Hafaz and Firuz Humayra Methe

This study aims to investigate the importance of lifelong learning in cultivating competent human capital, fostering long-term career sustainability and promoting gender equality…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the importance of lifelong learning in cultivating competent human capital, fostering long-term career sustainability and promoting gender equality in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has used a qualitative research methodology with inductive reasoning. The researchers used purposive sampling to conduct semi-structured interviews with 34 male and female students at the graduate and undergraduate levels, in addition to six stakeholders. This research is grounded in the theoretical frameworks of human capital development theory and gender and development theory.

Findings

The results suggest that there exists a positive correlation between lifelong learning, sustainable career development and gender equality in the context of Bangladesh. Successfully executing strategies might also play a significant role in attaining Bangladesh’s sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Practical implications

Educational curriculum reform within institutions is urgently needed, necessitating the active involvement and influential contributions of actors and stakeholders. Implementing lifelong learning must also align with gender equality and SDGs.

Originality/value

This study addresses a significant gap in the existing literature by offering insights into the relationship between lifelong learning, career sustainability and gender equality within the specific context of Bangladesh. This study provides valuable contributions to scholars, stakeholders and policymakers while establishing a foundation for future research endeavors.

Details

Quality Education for All, vol. 1 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2976-9310

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 September 2023

Jhong Yun Joy Kim, EunBee Kim and Doo Hun Lim

This study aims to conduct a quantitative meta-analysis of previous research on lifelong vocational education to generate generalized conclusions about its effects, set directions…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to conduct a quantitative meta-analysis of previous research on lifelong vocational education to generate generalized conclusions about its effects, set directions for future lifelong vocational education and identify implementation measures.

Design/methodology/approach

To conduct a meta-analysis on research results that have a heterogeneous distribution, it is important to specify the analysis category for examining the effects of research variables.

Findings

First, lifelong vocational education has an effect on dependent variables. And action appears to have the highest effect size on dependent variables. Next, when calculating the size of variables that had an effect on lifelong vocational education by educational type, the effect size of informal education was found to be larger than that of formal education. Finally, regarding the effect on the participants, office workers were influenced most, followed by university students, North Korean defectors, job seekers and foreigners.

Research limitations/implications

Although this study attempted to conduct an in-depth analysis of subcomponents, it was not possible to analyze variables at a more detailed level. Therefore, future studies should aim to conduct a more comprehensive analysis of different variables based on a wider composition. Because lifelong vocational education is relevant to people’s daily lives, it should be investigated in the context of their personal characteristics and social backgrounds.

Practical implications

This research was designed to uncover general effects of lifelong vocational education and discover relevant variables affecting lifelong vocational education in South Korea. A meta-analysis of 15 studies with 67 subgroups examining lifelong vocational education was conducted.

Social implications

In the current era of VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity), lifelong vocational education needs to be organized systematically, unlike in the past. With the rapid advancements in technology influenced by artificial intelligence and the fourth industrial revolution, there is a surge in social demands for continued reeducation and redevelopment of employees to prepare for talent development paradigm innovation, increasing unemployment among unskilled workers and competence enhancement needs among job seekers and employed individuals.

Originality/value

This study aims to conduct a quantitative meta-analysis of previous research on lifelong vocational education to draw generalized conclusions on its effectiveness and discuss its implications for implementation measures. Specifically, this study will analyze the general effect size; differences in the effect size among different dependent variable groups; and the effect size based on lifelong vocational education participants.

Details

European Journal of Training and Development, vol. 48 no. 7/8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-9012

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 25 September 2024

Louisa Mach and Bernd Ebersberger

This chapter delves into sustainability-related competences in innovation management for further education as part of the European lifelong learning initiative. Despite extensive…

Abstract

This chapter delves into sustainability-related competences in innovation management for further education as part of the European lifelong learning initiative. Despite extensive research in primary and secondary education, adult education often remains overlooked. Competence-based learning is a favored approach to integrating knowledge, skills, and attitudes across various domains. Through thematic analysis and deductive coding, the study examines 72 innovation management-related further education programs conducted in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, between June and December 2022. The findings unequivocally demonstrate the inclusion of sustainability competences in innovation-related further education. Notably, Strategic Competence emerges as the most prevalent, while Normative Competence appears least frequently. This research significantly advances the convergence of further education in innovation management, responsible management education, and competence-based learning, emphasizing the importance of sustainability competences in adult learning contexts. By shedding light on this underexplored domain, the study prompts further exploration and development of sustainable educational practices for lifelong learning.

Details

Innovation in Responsible Management Education
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83549-465-3

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 September 2024

Hosam Al-Samarraie, Samer Muthana Sarsam, Ahmed Ibrahim Alzahrani, Arunangsu Chatterjee and Bronwen J. Swinnerton

This study explored the themes and sentiments of online learners regarding the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or “generative AI” technology in higher education.

Abstract

Purpose

This study explored the themes and sentiments of online learners regarding the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or “generative AI” technology in higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

English-language tweets were subjected to topic modelling and sentiment analysis. Three prevalent themes were identified and discussed: curriculum development opportunities, lifelong learning prospects and challenges associated with generative AI use.

Findings

The results also indicated a range of topics and emotions towards generative AI in education, which were predominantly positive but also varied across male and female users.

Originality/value

The findings provide insights for educators, policymakers and researchers on the opportunities and challenges associated with the integration of generative AI in educational settings. This includes the importance of identifying AI-supported learning and teaching practices that align with gender-specific preferences to offer a more inclusive and tailored approach to learning.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 August 2024

Tra Lam Pham, Thi Phuong Thanh Tran, Thi Kim Thoa Dau and Anh Hoa Tran

This study investigates the determinants of digital competencies (DC) of students and professionals in accounting.

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigates the determinants of digital competencies (DC) of students and professionals in accounting.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 278 valid questionnaires were collected from 145 accounting students and 133 professionals to test the relationship between some characteristics of learners through the t-test and two-way ANOVA test.

Findings

The results showed a difference in DC between students and professionals. Whereas the characteristics of students do not influence their DC, gender and the number of short courses significantly affect their DC. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) should be provided in accounting programs as core competencies.

Research limitations/implications

A sample size that is not too large and does not include learners and professionals in the central and northern areas is problematic.

Practical implications

The key findings support the development of policies for digital transformation in accounting.

Originality/value

Accounting is one of the professions that must keep up with the changes in the world, which is in the process of rapid digitalization. Hence, this study is valuable for accounting practitioners, higher education institutions and managers to enhance DC continuously.

Details

Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-3896

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 July 2024

Erin Jade Twyford, Sedzani Musundwa, Farzana Aman Tanima and Sendirella George

The purpose of this paper is to argue for a transformative shift towards an inclusive and socially responsible framework in accounting education. Integrating the United Nations…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to argue for a transformative shift towards an inclusive and socially responsible framework in accounting education. Integrating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into accounting curricula can help accountants contribute positively towards the goals’ aim. This represents not merely an educational reform but a call to action to forge a path that empowers accounting students to be technically proficient and socially conscious graduates who act as change agents working towards the public interest.

Design/methodology/approach

This study challenges the technical focus of accounting, conceptualising it as a multidimensional technical, social and moral practice, transcending traditional boundaries to address complex societal issues. This paper is primarily discursive, using autoethnography through presenting vignettes written by four female accounting educators across three geographical regions. These first-person narratives foster a sense of interconnectedness and shared responsibility within the accounting community, reflecting a collective commitment to integrating SDGs into accounting education. By sharing personal experiences, the authors invite readers to engage in reflective pedagogy and contribute to shaping a better world through accounting education.

Findings

The transformative potential of purposefully incorporating SDGs into accounting education is not just a theoretical concept. The vignettes in this study provide concrete evidence of how this integration can shape future accountants into socially conscious professionals driven by ethics, equity and environmental responsibility. Our collective reflection underscores the importance of collaboration and continuous learning in aligning accounting education with the SDGs, offering a hopeful vision for the future of this field.

Originality/value

This study builds on existing literature to encourage communication, curriculum development, collaborative teaching approaches, experiential learning opportunities, ongoing evaluation and community dialogue on reshaping accounting education by giving a rare insight into what and how people teach and from what broader motivations. It offers a practical roadmap for educators to integrate SDGs into their teaching.

Details

Meditari Accountancy Research, vol. 32 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2049-372X

Keywords

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