This article aims to contribute to the discussion surrounding Manuela du Bois-Reymond's important "trendsetter learner" thesis and, in so doing, to join the wider debate about post-compulsory learning cultures. The article outlines the trendsetter learner thesis and then considers recent criticisms that it has attracted. While the author concurs…

Further education (FE) has traditionally been a rather unspectacular activity. Lacking the visibility of schools or the prestige of universities, for the vast majority of its existence FE has had a relatively low profile on the margins of English education. Over recent years this situation has altered significantly and further education has…

It has been estimated that as many as one in five adults in England have difficulties with literacy or numeracy skills. Raising the standards of language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) skills amongst all adults of working age in England has become one of the government's highest priorities. Following the launch of the "Skills for Life" strategy in…

Proposes an approach to the study of performance in higher education. Examines aesthetics and changing conventions of acceptability. Argues against curriculum imposition in favor of dynamic and subject-specific student-centered learning. (SK)

Policy discourse about lifelong learning has shifted from economic imperative to social and moral pursuit and intrinsic good. Despite this, the emphasis on technological solutions in Information Age discourse subjugates social, civic, and political concerns to an economic competitiveness rationale. (Contains 66 references.) (SK)

A reflective account of work experience undertaken by a teacher trainee reveals the learning derived from observation of the delivery of basic skills in the workplace. (Contains 20 references.) (SK)

Scrutinizes meanings of collaboration in a British government report on postcompulsory education (Kennedy Report). Finds that collaboration can have the effect of restricting the breadth of curriculum and limiting the form and mode of course delivery; it has not necessarily helped widen participation in Postsecondary education. (Contains 14…

A critique of the British model for widening participation in lifelong learning, using research from the United States, Palestine, and Singapore, identified flaws: (1) reliance on single-loop learning; (2) assumptions that blame nonparticipants instead of program inadequacies; (3) mislabeling of target groups; (4) neglect of learning trajectories;…

Analysis of British government, employer, and union policies on lifelong learning reveals different emphases. A case study of a union-sponsored workplace basic skills program illustrates the competing agendas of competitiveness, equality, and union organizing. The role of further research to influence policy and practice was emphasized. (Contains…