Micro-credentials for megatrends: Nordic and German approaches
Amid European challenges, the Nordic countries and Germany are turning to adult education, short-term courses and micro-credentials for solutions. A closer look at the countries reveals differences and areas for improvement.
Lauri Tuomi of EAEA: “No adult learner in Europe should be left behind”
Lauri Tuomi, President of EAEA since June 2025, envisions a future where every adult learner can pursue lifelong learning. But how can this goal be achieved? And how can sustainable funding be secured?
Developing literacy skills in a 3D museum
In a virtual museum – “A library of life, love and loss” – adult learners can post images and brief tales and develop their literacy skills. The gallery shares poignant stories and represents a valuable teaching method.
EAEA’s Kihrer: Strengthening the links between policy, practice and research
Raffaela Kihrer became the new Secretary General of the European Association for the Education of Adults (EAEA) in January 2025. What are her main objectives in this role? What brings her the most joy? And what worries keep her up at night?
A Faroe Islands project helps young adults build confidence in education
The Faroese project Serbreyt invests in the education of young people with special needs. The key is identifying the strengths of the learners and building on them.
EDITORIAL Making flexibility real
In her editorial on the theme of Flexible Learning Approaches, ELM Editorial Board member Antra Carlsen explores flexible learning and highlights micro-credentials as an important tool for supporting it.
Lorenz Lassnigg: Research and practice: A difficult bridge
”Political practices must be included endogenously in attempts to understand the research-practice relationship in adult education,” argues Dr. Lorenz Lassnigg, senior researcher at the Institute for Advanced Studies in Vienna. In his column, he examines the elements for bridging the gap between research and practice.
Barros: “Poor working conditions in academia hinder the integration of research and policy”
Why does cooperation between researchers and policymakers remain at a standstill in Portugal? “Because of the lack of recognition and improvement in the working conditions of scientists,” replies Rosanna Barros of the University of Algarve. What solutions does Barros propose?
Nataša Potočnik: “Adult education is about empowerment and inclusion”
Our “Meet the board” series introduces the members of ELM Magazine’s editorial board. Our newest member, Nataša Potočnik of the Slovenian Institute for Adult Education, believes in lifelong learning’s role in reducing inequalities and fostering active citizenship.
Research and practice: Equal collaboration can lead to relevant research
“A trusting, eye-to-eye dialogue is needed for fruitful collaboration between research and practice,” says Sonja Muders of the German Institute for Adult Education. Amid divergent languages and priorities, how can that be achieved?
