The study was published by the European Commission earlier this week.
19.11.2015

The Commission publishes an in-depth analysis of adult learning policies and their effectiveness in Europe

The new study published by the European Commission concludes that adult learning policy could be made significantly more effective through a more systematic collection of data, and a more rigorous approach to evaluation to enable Member States’ policy actions to be monitored against their objectives.

Key findings of the study include:

  • A systemic review of the latest evidence confirms the significant benefits that adult learning brings to individuals, companies and society;
  • However, the statistical evidence shows that these benefits are not accessible to a very large number of adults who do not undertake any learning;
  • The study found that policies to ensure access to learning are often not in place or not sufficient to make a systemic impact;
  • The study has identified a number of policy actions that are proven to be effective in increasing adult participation in learning;
  • At the same time, Member States lack sufficient policy monitoring systems to ensure that the policy actions that are implemented achieve their intended impact;
  • The study thus proposes an analytical framework: a template that can assist policymakers in analysing their adult learning policies.

The publication is freely available on the website of the Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion.

Text: Via European CommissionPhotos: EC - Audiovisual Service / Lambiotte Christian

28.02.2025 green transition

The SMALEI Final Conference: Empowering Adult Learning and Education for a Sustainable Future

The SMALEi conference provided a vital platform for discussing the role of adult learning and education (ALE) in fostering sustainability. Bringing together policymakers, ALE institutions, practitioners, civil society representatives, and lifelong learning experts, the conference focused on equipping institutions with the tools and frameworks necessary to contribute to Europe's sustainability goals.

24.02.2025 advocacy

OECD’s recent Assessment of Adult Competencies and its meaning for European educators

On the 20th of February, EAEA and EBSN (European Basic Skills Network) organised a webinar dedicated to the recently published results of the PIAAC study. Highlighting learner stories, the webinar started with a personal one from Donna Ridings, followed by the keynote speaker Andreas Schleicher, the OECD's Director for Education and Skills. The panellists brought key insights into national, local and regional approaches, struggles and good practices.

11.02.2025 advocacy

Advancing Gender Equality in Lifelong Learning: Insights from the Gender Equality Task Force Kick-off Meeting

At the beginning of February, the Gender Equality Task Force for Lifelong Learning organised an online kick-off for its 2025 activities. The webinar was an opportunity for the members of the Task Force, including policy advisors, institutional directors, project officers, and public authorities, to discuss the initiative’s upcoming activities. 17 participants attended the meeting.