"Lifelong Learning": Österreich im Kontext internationaler Strategien und Forschungen

Abstract: The present paper deals with the development and the status quo of Lifelong Learning in Austria. Aiming at a profile of future strategies, major recent findings and internationally debated policy issues are brought together along the following five lines: First, empirical results on Austrian continued education (participation, finances, etc.), though frequently insufficient or contradictory, are surveyed. Relevant structural elements and points of contention are outlined. Second, approaches within the National Action Plan framework of 1998 and 1999 are scrutinized. Third, the development of the most important international strategies for Lifelong Learning and principal criticisms are recapitulated. Fourth, political consequences of market failure, problems related to financing options, and tensions between the short and long time perspective are identified as the predominant issues in recent research. Finally, this backdrop serves to address open questions for an Austrian strategy of Lifelong Learning. As most pressing demand, a common problem definition is sought.;