Lifelong Learning in Action

Lifelong Learning is now central to the Hong Kong education reform agenda. As a recent Education Commission Report put it, ‘lifelong learning is the key to Hong Kong’s success’.

This book focuses on the post-secondary, continuing and professional education (CPE) sector. It includes contributions from Hong Kong practitioners in the field as well as from eminent international scholars who are well acquainted with CPE in Hong Kong.

The book is in three parts. The first part traces recent developments in CPE in Hong Kong and offers an up-to-date account of policy, programmes and provision. A profile of lifelong learners, drawing on recent research findings, is also provided.

In the second part, practitioners from a diverse range of subject disciplines offer their perspectives on the issues. This part of the book contains a wealth of ideas and examples illustrating the practice of lifelong learning in Hong Kong.

The third part examines the forces shaping post-secondary education in Hong Kong and explores emergent issues. Topics discussed include: the convergence of higher and continuing education, work-based learning, cross-border collaborations with mainland China, Hong Kong vocational education and training policy, and the legal challenges posed by on-line learning.

Written primarily for academic managers and teachers in the adult and continuing education sector, this book will also be of interest to (postgraduate) students of lifelong learning, comparative education researchers, CPE policy-makers, employers and human resources managers. It is a timely contribution to the current debate on the future shape of education in Hong Kong.

The two editors’ combined experience in tertiary sector teaching and administration totals 57 years. They are now both working in the School of Professional and Continuing Education, The University of Hong Kong (HKU SPACE). John Cribbin is the School Secretary and Registrar; a graduate of University College London and Leicester University, he has previously worked at King’s College London and the UK Open University. Peter Kennedy is a Senior Programme Director responsible for programmes in the fields of human resource management and training, as well as in English and theatre studies.

‘A thorough treatment of the topic. Provides useful source material for academics and for graduate students.’ —Professor Richard Taylor, Director of Continuing Education Development, School of Continuing Education, University of Leeds

‘There is much that is useful here for academic managers and practitioners in the adult and continuing education sector.’ —Professor W. J. Morgan, Director of Comparative Education Research, School of Continuing Education, University of Nottingham