Lifelong Learning in the Global Knowledge Economy: Challenges for Developing Countries (Directions in Development)

The global knowledge economy is transforming the demands of the labor market in economies worldwide. It is placing new demands on citizens, who need more skills and knowledge to function in their day-to-day lives than can be acquired in formal education systems alone. Lifelong learning--from early childhood to retirement--is education for the knowledge economy, and it is as crucial in transition and developing economies as it is in the developed world. A roadmap for policymakers in developing countries to the key issues and challenges of education in a knowledge economy, this book explores the ways in which lifelong learning systems encourage growth. The authors discuss the changing nature of learning and the expanding role of the private sector in education and training world-wide. In a detailed and practical way, they consider the policy and financing options available to governments seeking to meet the lifelong needs of their learners. "In a static economy, what one learns as a youth will serve a lifetime. In a dynamic economy, learning needs to occur throughout one's lifetime. [This book] sets out the issues and makes a compelling case that educational priorities need to be refocused on lifelong learning opportunities. Moreover, the book is a call to action for developing countries and those who seek to help them."--Barry R. Chiswick, Distinguished Professor, University of Illinois at ChicagoWorld Bank is the author of 'Lifelong Learning in the Global Knowledge Economy: Challenges for Developing Countries (Directions in Development)', published 2003 under ISBN 9780821354759 and ISBN 0821354752.