“You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him to learn by creating curiosity, he will continue the learning process as long as he lives.”- Clay P. Bedford.
Lifelong learning can be defined as continuous learning pursued throughout life. This can foster continuous development and improvement of skills and knowledge. If one is willing to learn more, progress won’t stop. This will keep us updated on matters that are abruptly changing.
In Singapore, education has always been one of the pillars of the society. Our education system is highly recognised worldwide. We ranked 2nd in “Quality of the Educational System” as per the Global Competitiveness Report 2011–2012, identified as one of the world’s best performing school systems in 2010 McKinsey Report, ranked top in Mathematics, Reading and Science on Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2009, and many more. These awards made it evident that we have a holistic education system with capable teachers, bilingual advantage, broad-based learning and integration with information and communication technologies (ICT).
ICT plays a big role in the lifelong learning of the students. It gives learners easier access on gaining and sharing knowledge. Today, learning strategies varies depending on the students’ ability to learn the lessons. Through the help of customisable learning management system, teachers can now modify lessons that can respond to a learner’s abilities and style of learning. In addition, e-learning gives the students and teachers extensive media educational resource. Learning management system combines the pedagogy and technology to ensure effective learning.
Moreover, learning does not end at school. There are much more to learn besides the subjects and modules at school. Recently, Singapore government has revealed its aim to support further learning for the Singaporeans through SkillsFuture.
“In our next wave of development, we will build a first-rate system of continuing education and training: learning throughout life. It will intertwine education and the world of work in ways that strengthen and enrich both. It will make the workplace a major site of learning. It will enable every Singaporean to maximise his or her potential, from young and through life. It will build an advanced economy and ensure us of a fair society.” – Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Finance and Chairman of the SkillsFuture Council.
SkillsFuture is a national movement to support Singaporeans with the opportunities to develop and reach their fullest potential throughout life. This program will support everyone who wants to learn and improve their skills whether you are in schooling years, early career, mid-career or silver years. Lifelong learning is attainable as long as you have the willingness and passion for learning.