Access to lifelong learning opportunities has long been discussed in terms of the economic benefits conferred by access to and engagement in further education by members of the labor force, particularly within the global knowledge economy. However, equitable access to lifelong education opportunities, particularly for low-skilled adults in the…

This article presents the Belem Framework for Action. This framework focuses on harnessing the power and potential of adult learning and education for a viable future. This framework begins with a preamble on adult education and towards lifelong learning.

CONFINTEA VI provided a unique lens through which to view adult education and literacy worldwide. Over 1,000 participants from 144 countries were convened to advance the recognition of adult learning and education as important elements of lifelong learning and crucial to the agendas for international education and development. The aim was to…

Misconceptions include the following: (1) literacy changes the way people think; (2) illiteracy will soon be eradicated; (3) U.S. literacy is far worse than elsewhere; (4) U.S. government has made major investments in literacy; (5) increased public awareness has led to significant improvements; and (6) better applications of technology will solve…