Lifelong Learning for All

This document summarizes the proceedings of a meeting of the Organisation for Economic Development's Education Committee that focused on the theme of making lifelong learning a reality for all. Part 1 explains the participants' decision to focus on making learning a process extending from early childhood through retirement, describes the main policy issues addressed during the meeting, and presents the communique released by the ministers after the meeting. Part 2 examines the following trends and policy issues in OECD economics and societies: making transitions to learning economics and societies; moving toward lifelong learning for all; establishing the foundations for lifelong learning (culture/values/pluralism in school learning, positive learning environments, investment in early childhood education); improving pathways and transitions in lifelong learning and work; managing autonomy and choice and determining the role of government in lifelong learning; using goals and standards in formal and nonformal learning; strengthening educational resources (teachers and other key actors, new technologies, physical settings and information for lifelong learning); and paying for lifelong learning for all. Contains 121 tables/figures and 329 references. Appended are 63 tables of additional evidence and key statistics. (MN)