policy
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?
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?
Bridging the gap: How stakeholder cooperation can enhance lifelong learning
Conducted across 21 European countries, the RegALE survey highlights the urgent need for better cooperation among policymakers, practitioners and researchers to create a more inclusive and effective adult education system in Europe. Francesca Torlone of the University of Florence discusses the survey results, noting the fragmented state of adult education and proposing solutions.
EDITORIAL How best to harness the research in adult education?
In his editorial on the theme of Research and Practice, ELM Editorial Board member Jón Torfi Jónasson highlights how good research can open new worlds and push us forward. With an open mind, it becomes a powerful inspiration for improving practice and shaping policy.
What role can companies play in civic education?
As political trust wanes and populism rises, there are calls for Europe’s corporate sector to step up. The Civic Scouts at Work programme empowers employees to promote democracy through civic education in corporate training. Can corporate social responsibility help adult learners cope with policy changes in Europe?
Estonians’ belief: Education is the gateway to enhanced living
Could the outstanding results in Estonia’s general education be translated into adult education? In her column, Maie Kitsing explores the four pillars of the country’s education system. Kitsing serves as Advisor at the General Education Department at the Estonian Ministry of Education and Research.
ICAE’s Guevara: Flexibility and partnering needed in adult education policy
“Given the diverse nature of post-schooling education, we need flexibility in adult education policy, not rigid structures,” argues Robbie Guevara, President of International Council for Adult Education and Associate Professor at RMIT University in Melbourne.
Uwe Gartenschlaeger: Adult education is essential to tackle societal challenges
“If we want to live in peace and democracy, if we want to give everybody a fair chance not to be left behind, we need lifelong learning and adult learning,” says Uwe Gartenschlaeger, President of the EAEA.
EDITORIAL Politics, policy and practice: Navigating the challenges of continuing education
In his editorial on the theme of Policy and Practice, ELM Editorial Board member Thomas Jung raises important questions about the relationship between the two. How do political changes impact continuing education? When is a continuing education policy considered successful?
