Understand how lifelong learning enhances people’s ability to achieve career goals. Lifelong learning is defined as all learning activities undertaken throughout life, with the aim of improving knowledge, skills and competence, within a personal, civil, social and employment-related perspective (Summers & Smith 2010). The concept of lifelong learning has become one of the most widely discussed concepts in the field of adult education (Summers & Smith 2010).
Lifelong learning is the ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge for either personal or professional reasons (Robert, 1997). Therefore, it not only enhances social inclusion and personal development, but also competitiveness and employability (Robert, 1997). The term recognises that learning is not confirmed to childhood or the classroom but takes place throughout life and in a range of situations (Robert, 1997). Learning can no longer be divided into a place and time to acquire knowledge and a place and time to apply the knowledge acquired (Robert, 1997). Instead, learning can be seen as something that takes place on an on-going basis from our daily interactions with others and with the world around us (Summers & Smith 2010).

Understand why lifelong learning is required in the workplace. Education and training is no longer seen as being solely and realm of educational institution (Summers & Smith 2010). Education and training is increasingly viewed in terms of a broader system involving workplaces, educational institutions, individuals and a variety of other government and community organisations (Summers & Smith 2010). The increasingly competitive nature of the economy, and demographic, occupational and workplace change have had a significant impact on the nature of the workplace (Summers & Smith 2010). These changes have meant that the skill level of employees must be continuously developed (Summers & Smith 2010). The skill mix required by orgnisations is changing, with employers demanding generic skills such as communication and problem-solving skills, in addition to technical skills (Robert, 1997). As such, workplace learning, both formal and informal, is taking on an increasingly important role in the education and training of the workforce (Robert, 1997). Currently, most of the training in the workplace is not accredited, however the total extent and diversity of workplace learning is vast (Robert, 1997).

Determine the value of ongoing learning to you. A Hollywood blockbuster released a movie about a dedicated 40 year old man who is laid off from