This book brings out the need for lifelong learning theory and explores how it is possible from a postmodern perspective. The book uses life history that has gained its popularity in social science research to overcome the dichotomy between individual and society or between agency and structure. Life history also reflects the postmodern or late-modern conditions of social life. In this book, the author uses a collection of published oral history narratives of famous Korean artists and craftsmen. The author maps out life and learning of five such artists and craftsmen with figurations of...

This book examines the ways in which formal and non-formal education can contribute to women's successful design, development and operation of small businesses in rural settings. Calling on varied, pertinent social theories, the book examines profitable businesses operated by Dongxiang Muslim women in the southern Gansu province of northwestern China. The author explains the multifaceted formula for women's challenges and successes in their business endeavours and goal for financial security. It argues that informal learning is the most important type of education to employ knowledge and...

Global Networks, Local Actions: Rethinking adult education policy in the 21st century examines public policy developments in adult education, exploring the policy framing of adult education practice in a range of socio-cultural contexts, and contributing to the development of policy research from global and comparative perspectives.

Drawing from multidisciplinary fields such as adult education, comparative and international education, and sociology, chapters analyse empirically grounded studies from the US, Italy, Argentina and Brazil. Each study helps to identify...

Enhancing the Wellbeing and Wisdom of Older Learners: A Co-research Paradigm examines how lifelong learning, becoming wise, and sharing wisdom are integrally linked to older people s wellbeing. The book highlights appropriate learning styles and pedagogies for older people, including research models emphasising participation, and offers recommendations for research in lifelong learning with the potential to effect change.

Focusing upon a collaborative action research project, Sagaciation, chapters explore the involvement of older learners in the design and delivery of the scheme, which...