Smidt, H., & Sursock, A. Engaging in Lifelong Learning: Shaping Inclusive and Responsive Strategies. European University Association, Brussels, 2011. ISBN: 978-9-0789-9728-3. Pages: 104.

This report provides an overview of different approaches among European universities with regard to lifelong learning. The publication is the result of a two-year effort by the SIRUS project (Shaping Inclusive and Responsive University Strategies), which has been carried forward by four consortium partners: the European University Association (EUA), the European Association of Distance Teaching Universities (EADTU), the European Access Network (EAN) and the European University Continuing Education Network (EUCEN).

The report contains evidence from 29 participating universities from 18 European countries (16 EU member states and two neighbouring European countries) in terms of novel approaches to developing institutional strategies for lifelong learning, successful implementation practices and obstacles to the further development of the lifelong learning agenda.

The authors of the report advocate for linking lifelong learning to the concept of the “engaged university”, an institution marked by “a culture of inclusiveness and responsiveness” and endowed with a strategy that “balances academic values and societal concerns and advances academic knowledge and individual and societal development”.

 EUA