This book argues that adult learning from experiences in paid and unpaid work contexts should be the basis for a new perception of what is truly educative about life. Part I sets out what practice is like in postmodern times. Chapter 1 introduces the argument that 'know how' is important in lifelong learning. Chapter 2 shows organic learning is a manifestation of what it is to be human at work and workplaces can develop structures that advance "whole person" capabilities for purposeful action. Chapter 3 rounds out the concept of know-how by building on organic learning-- in particular showing that practical judgement is central to practice in postmodernity. Chapter 4 shows that broader, more socially and culturally sensitive approaches to practice are available in the realm of policy. Part II theorizes practice anew, from an educational perspective, in light of postmodernity. Chapter 5 is an introduction to theories of practice. Chapter 6 begins to conceptualize practice as the successful performance of work by showing the intimate connection of practice with informal learning. Chapter 7 proposes an alternative to the standard paradigm of learning--one inclusive of practice-based informal workplace learning. Chapter 8 explains the authors' claim that they are strategic postmodernists. Chapter 9 clarifies the emerging paradigm of learning based on dissolution of dualisms and a "contiguous" model of vocational preparation by showing how the notion of judgement is at its heart. Appendixes include a 235-item bibliography and index. (YLB)