Title: Growing an internet-based community for lifelong self-learners: empowering the community

Authors: Paul Irvine, Paul Brna

Addresses: School of Informatics, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK. School of Informatics, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK

Abstract: Lifelong learning is a conceptual framework for planning and implementing the reform of existing learning and training systems to enable individuals to engage in learning wherever, whenever and however it may be appropriate to their learning styles and needs. It is a social goal, which envisages a learning society in which learning in all its forms is facilitated and celebrated. New learning technologies have considerable potential for establishing a learning society with the internet and have an especially important role. However, this technology may only be effective if important social factors are taken into account. This paper focuses on how a web-based community was established to support the learning needs of self-learners. An evolutionary design process was employed, aimed at empowering learners.

Keywords: lifelong learning; self learning; learning communities; empowerment.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCEELL.2003.002150

International Journal of Continuing Engineering Education and Life-Long Learning, 2003 Vol.13 No.1/2, pp.5-21

Published online: 21 Jul 2003 *

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