Encouragement to Become a Lifelong Learner

Lifelong learning has become a very popular concept over the last 10-15 years. Governments are developing and implementing Lifelong learning frameworks, and programs to ensure that citizens can obtain new knowledge regularly through entire life, and it is the only way to succeed in the dynamic environment which we live in today.

For example, the EU Framework for Lifelong learning defines eight key competencies:

• Communication in the mother tongue;
  
• Communication in foreign languages;
  
• Mathematical competence and basic competencies in science and technology;
  
• Digital competency;
  
• Learning to learn;
  
• Social and civic competencies;
  
• Sense of initiative and entrepreneurship;
  
• Cultural awareness and expression.
  

It is important to realize that the Key Competences for Lifelong learning are not static; they are changing regularly, and it is important to make sure that all people have the opportunity to build the required competencies by accessing different forms of education and training.

Several aspects of Lifelong learning contribute to our successful life in the 21st century:

• Learning to know;
  
• Learning to do;
  
• Learning to live together and with others;
  
• Learning to be.
  

There are a variety of ways how to engage yourself in Lifelong learning, and it is up to everyone to decide which way to choose:

• Reading and conducting research on the specific topics;
  
• Reaching out to people (online and offline) who can inspire and advise you;
  
• Teaching others is an excellent way to expand and update your knowledge and expertise;
  
• Creating a personal learning environment;
  
• Starting a new project, which will require new knowledge and skills;
  
• Finding a job that requires and encourages learning and collaboration;
  
• Experimenting the latest educational technology tools which support a personalized learning;
  
• Joining online courses.
  

Lifelong learning is changing our mindset, and it motivates us:

• Embrace the changes;
  
• Never give up;
  
• Practice self-compassion;
  
• See the effort as a journey;
  
• Learn from criticism;
  
• Be inspired by other’s success;
  
• Help and support others;
  
• Believe in opportunities.
  

It seems obvious that we all in WA are all Lifelong learners.