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

11.07.2025 advocacy

EAEA and Forma.Azione sign a Memorandum of Understanding

EAEA and Forma.Azione have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

09.07.2025 activism

Disability Awareness Day 2025:  What is the role of non-formal adult education in ensuring the rights of people with disabilities?

On the occasion of the Disability Awareness Day (July 14), EAEA reflects upon the existing EU policies on lifelong learning and persons with disabilities and highlights how non-formal adult education supports  inclusive education.  

07.07.2025 cooperation

‘’A secure Europe and a competitive and green Europe’’

Last week, Denmark took the torch of the new Council Presidency, after 6 months of its Polish fellow.