Structure, Function and Impact of Lifelong Learning Using ICT and ODL

Abstract

One of the themes of this presentation is that the lifelong learning approach need not be a linear process of literacy-formal education-non-formal learning-informal learning. The presentation argues that formal and non-formal should be treated as a continuum and not to be seen as a dichotomous model. The non-formal and informal learning can take place even without formal education and literacy. The other important theme which needs careful attention in the context of the SDGs is the ability of education and learning to create economic, social and environmental externalities without which SDG4 will not be able to influence other SDGs. The optimism on the positive returns on investment in education is being increasingly questioned. Pritchett, in his analytical study, argues that formal education “contributed much less to growth than expected” and called for reformation so that “investments…in cognitive skills pay off” (2000: 28,29). // Based on a study conducted by Alexis Carr, Rosemary Atieno, Mamudu Akudugu, James Onyango and K. Balasubramanian. // Presented at the “Expanding Horizons in ODL”, ODLAA 2017 Conference, 6 February 2017, Melbourne, Australia. // Related presentation: http://hdl.handle.net/11599/2699