The FLECSLAB project aims to identify the most appropriate learning formats and explore scenarios for flexible learning patterns with the help of key societal stakeholders responsible for adult learning and employment in the European context. For this reason, we have appointed an advisory board that will inspire the development of the project in its final phase. The main role of the FLECSLAB Advisory Board is to provide expertise to the FLECSLAB project team working on Work Package 2 (Lifelong Learning Business Model) and to offer innovative advice and dynamic perspectives in this area. The two members of the Advisory Board (both experts working in LLL) have reviewed and commented on the Business Models for Lifelong Learning in EUTOPIA learning Communities provided by UL.

The Advisory Board met online on 15 November 2024.

In the discussion, the experts had relevant questions, comments and suggestions to improve our work on the business models and are summarised below.

Particular attention should be paid to the learner, who should be placed at the centre. This is particularly important as the research and OECD data on lifelong learning (as pointed out by experts) show that the real problem with lifelong learning is motivation – how can we inspire people to engage and how can we organise lifelong learning at an institutional level in a way that solves the lifelong learning problem?

More attention should be paid to the economic aspects of lifelong learning. This is partly because we are (generally) not doing enough in this area, i.e. universities lack the resources for lifelong learning and at the same time we do not want to burden learners financially. Artificial intelligence will also have an impact on lifelong learning and universities need to fill the gaps here. The university in lifelong learning is particularly important in the phases where the academic world is wondering who can work with you, i.e. there is no formal accreditation and recognition system for non-formal providers. The role of universities in lifelong learning could also be to help other education providers.

The valuable suggestions and comments in the discussion led to the conclusion that the individual learner should be at the centre and that we should consider how we can get LLL right for everyone.