Our learning never stops. We are constantly introduced to new ideas, concepts, and approaches that influence our lives. The is called being a lifelong learner and it’s a familiar term for most. 

What exactly is lifelong learning? How can we pursue it? To continue Forward Wayne County’s focus on Education, find out some of the benefits of being a lifelong learner, how it can impact your life, and resources available locally in Wayne County.  

What is Lifelong Learning?  

The concept of lifelong learning is simple. It is the idea that as people we are constantly learning whether we are actively or passively pursuing it.  And yes, this includes when our formal schooling days are over.  

This can be something like learning new skills on the job, picking up a new hobby, or choosing to go back to school. It looks different for everyone, and there are varied reasons why some choose to continue their education. We will discuss those ideas in the next two sections of this blog.    

Types of Lifelong Learning  

Education looks different from individual to individual. With lifelong learning, you can split it into two categories. They include formal and informal education.  

Formal Education 

Going back to school is something everyone might consider at some point in their lives. Formal education includes everything from a two-year degree to graduate studies.  

People of all ages and career stages return to school for job advancement, personal growth, or a career change. When it comes to formal education, you need to find what degree or career path best fits you. Before choosing what to pursue, analyze where you want to see yourself and how education will help you get there.  

People in Wayne County have several options to pursue their lifelong learning. The community is home to five higher education institutions which include  

Each one offers an array of degree programs. Students interested in bachelor’s or graduate degrees should look into IU East or Earlham. On the other hand, someone interested in a trade or more job specific program might consider Ivy Tech.  

Speaking of trade skills, there are various apprenticeship programs available through local businesses like Nixon Tool and Ahaus Tool and Engineering. Additionally, those looking for a career change should check out resources and programs offered through Eastern Indiana Works.  

Whatever you choose, understand that there are resources to help you in lifelong learning. It is about picking what path works best for you. 

Informal Education 

Education can go beyond the classroom or college campus. Informal education is very self-directed and may require some motivation. The digital landscape has made it even easier to pursue education. It is all at your fingertips.  

Some popular forms of it include:  

  • Conferences  
  • Lunch and learns  
  • Social networking  
  • Mentoring  

The possibilities for informal education are limitless. The beauty of it is you can keep it as simple as possible and easily align it with your interests.  

Why Do People Continue their Education 

It is important for us to always be learning and growing. Education makes us more informed and exposes us to innovative ideas and skills. This is why lifelong learning is so vital.    

Professional  

In the professional world, continuing education can open doors you never knew existed. People go back to school all the time to help advance their careers. Higher-up positions may require a certain level of education achieved through a degree.  

People may also use learning as a professional pivot. Making a career change is normal and gaining a new educational background can be a needed boost. Are you a bank teller looking to move up? Consider an accounting degree. Are you working in manufacturing? Consider enrolling in an apprenticeship or trade program.  

Personal  

Lifelong learning can have a lot of personal value for some people. They find pride in obtaining a degree or certificate. It can serve as a reminder and motivator. School is demanding work, and completing a degree program at any level is always an accomplishment.   

For Fun  

There is a lot of fun to be found in learning. It doesn’t always have to be taken so seriously. Finding a podcast or online course you like can be just as meaningful. You are only limited by your imagination and with all the available online resources the sky is the limit. 

For example, if you want to experience an Ivy League course take a free online class through Harvard. Or if you want to learn a new language, check out Duolingo.  

There will never be a day where we don’t learn something new. Lifelong learning offers you the opportunity to expand your horizons. Again, it doesn’t always need to be extravagant. Education is what you make it.  

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