Formal and Informal Paths of Lifelong Learning

This chapter aims to formal and informal paths of lifelong learning relate to the hybrid networked university. Building on the idea of the networked society, the chapter continues with a discussion of the dichotomy of formal and informal learning, which is dissolved and replaced by a conceptualization of lifelong learning that embraces the formal and informal attributes of learning. The chapter takes a closer look at how the mandate for higher education relates to changes in the paths of lifelong learning. The impact of the hybrid character of lifelong learning following in the footsteps of the emergence of the networked university will be developed further later in the chapter. The inherent social nature of an educational experience draws our attention to the role of collaboration and community in constructing meaning and confirming understanding. Participants in collaborative learning environments are able to grow beyond what is probable in largely independent learning experiences.