«Lifelong learning for the new decade, 39th EUCEN Conference», 27-29 May 2010, Rovaniemi, Finland

Abstract

The «39th EUCEN European Conference», hosted in Finland (Rovaniemi), focused on the concept of lifelong learning considered as the guiding principle for global development. The European Council recently adopted the conclusions in a strategic framework for European cooperation in education and training. Lifelong learning can be considered suitable in facing the challenges of the decade 2010-2020. Starting from the strategies of changes proposed by the European lifelong learning model and the Bologna Process, modernisation and innovation in universities depend on the kind of answer we can provide to social, economic and cultural challenges. The conference addressed the issues relating to the role of lifelong learning in the new decade; the restorative education environments; and the enhancing dynamic capabilities with social mediators and social media. The conference also highlighted the importance of new concepts such as distance learning, social networking, methods and tools for collaborative learning, reflective and strategic competence. Working from the viewpoint of education, and of adult education in particular, means adopting some basic concepts, such as reflective practice, a learner-centred approach, the attribution of significance, and the role of social, professional and cultural contexts.