Lifelong learning is essential for people to succeed in labour markets and societies shaped by megatrends such as increased life expectancy, rapid technological change, globalisation, migration, environmental change and digitalisation, as well as sudden shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic. In a rapidly changing and uncertain world, lifelong learning can help individuals adapt and become resilient to external shocks.
While state aid remains valuable in ensuring that major structural changes do not lead to deep disintegration in the social fabric, the creation of a culture of lifelong learning allows individuals themselves to manage change. This requires evidence of the best ways to support lifelong learning travel so that individuals can “learn how to learn”.
This edition of the OECD Skills Outlook 2021 explores how policies, in particular those governing skills development and the use of skills, can best promote lifelong learning for all. The report uses comparative quantitative data to highlight the important role of socio-emotional and motivating factors in building a successful commitment to lifelong learning. While such factors are crucial for maintaining lifelong learning in general, the pandemic has further increased their relevance.