This book critically reflects on the context in which lifelong learning policies and practices are organized in Europe with contributions of researchers and policy makers in the field. Through a critical lens the book reinterprets the core content of the messages that are conveyed by the European Commission in the “Memorandum for Lifelong Learning”, the most important policy document in the area, which after a decade from its publication still remains the vehicle for all current developments in lifelong learning in Europe. With references to research findings, proposed actions, and applications to immediate practice that have an added value for Europeans –but which either do not appear to correspond directly to what is stipulated by the European Commission, or are completely ignored as part of the lifelong learning process– the book offers an analytic and systematic outlook of the main challenges in creating the ‘European Area of Lifelong Learning’. In times as decisive as the ones we are going through today (both in social and economic terms), a critical perspective of the practices and policies adopted by the EU Member States is essential. The book follows the same structure as the Memorandum in order to debate and critically approach in separate sections the core issues that Europe faces today in relation to the idea of making a ‘European area of Lifelong Learning’. ​

Contains research project reports arranged by subject with descriptors from the EUDISED Multilingual Thesaurus.

This is the 32nd edition of the publication which contains over 2,500 entries giving information about post-secondary education and training opportunities in all academic and professional fields in 147 countries for years 2004 and 2005. It has a special focus on distance education, including open and distance learning (ODL) with an annotated listing of online directories and databases of ODL courses worldwide. Information is also given on courses, scholarships and financial assistance available to foreign students, recognition of studies and diplomas obtained abroad, and key issues students should consider before embarking on higher education study. The text is written in English, French and Spanish.