Powering a Learning Society During an Age of Disruption

This open-access book explores the role of a learning society as a driver of change, with far-reaching implications for learning to meet the needs of economies and societies. It emphasizes the importance of learning communities, including non-traditional actors such as city and urban planners, citizens, transport professionals, and technology companies, in strengthening the fabric of a learning society for future economic and social development.

Format: Hardback
Length: 321 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2021
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This open-access book explores cutting-edge perspectives on the role of a learning society, drawing insights from esteemed practitioners, experts from universities, governments, and industry leaders. The thought-provoking articles advocate for a learning society as a powerful catalyst for transformative change, exerting a profound impact on education to meet the demands of economies and societies. The book serves as a testament to the significance of "learning communities." It underscores the crucial role that non-traditional actors, including city and urban planners, citizens, transport professionals, and technology companies, can play in shaping the future of a learning society. This collection aims to make valuable contributions to the ongoing discourse on bolstering the foundations of a learning society, which is essential for achieving sustainable economic and social development, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Introduction:
The concept of a learning society has gained increasing prominence in recent years, as societies grapple with the challenges of rapid technological change, global interconnectedness, and the need for lifelong learning. A learning society is characterized by a culture that values and promotes learning, where individuals and organizations are continuously engaged in acquiring new knowledge, skills, and attitudes to adapt to changing circumstances.

The Role of a Learning Society:
The book explores the various dimensions of a learning society, including its economic, social, and cultural implications. It argues that a learning society is a major driver of economic growth and innovation, as it fosters a workforce that is adaptable, flexible, and capable of responding to the demands of a rapidly changing job market. Moreover, a learning society promotes social inclusion and equity, as it provides opportunities for all individuals to access education and training, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.

The Importance of Learning Communities:
The book highlights the pivotal role of "learning communities" in fostering a learning society. Learning communities are networks of individuals and organizations that share a common interest in learning and development. They can include educational institutions, businesses, community organizations, and individuals who are passionate about lifelong learning. Learning communities provide a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation, enabling individuals and organizations to adapt to changing circumstances and thrive in a competitive global environment.

Non-Traditional Actors in a Learning Society:
The book recognizes the importance of non-traditional actors in shaping a learning society. City and urban planners, for example, can play a crucial role in designing cities that are conducive to learning and innovation. They can create spaces that encourage collaboration, creativity, and access to knowledge, such as public libraries, innovation centers, and coworking spaces. Citizens, too, can contribute to a learning society by actively engaging in lifelong learning and participating in community initiatives. Transport professionals, such as bus drivers and train operators, can also play a role in promoting learning by providing educational resources and opportunities for passengers to learn while traveling.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this open-access book presents a comprehensive exploration of the role of a learning society, drawing insights from leading practitioners, experts, and policymakers. It advocates for a learning society as a powerful driver of change, with far-reaching implications for education, economic growth, social inclusion, and innovation. The book highlights the importance of learning communities and non-traditional actors in shaping a learning society, and provides a roadmap for building a more resilient and inclusive future.

Weight: 676g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811609824
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021