Get to know EULiST – an insight into lifelong learning
Pia Andersson and Lina Acosta
In a series of interviews to come, you will meet some of the people at Jönköping University (JU) who are part of the EULiST (European Universities Linking Society and Technology) work packages. You will learn more about JU's involvement in the alliance, current projects and what EULiST offers to staff and students. The first interview is with Pia Andersson and Lina Acosta on lifelong learning.
Pia Andersson is Assistant Professor of Psychology at the School of Education and Communication where she teaches on the HR programme and is part of the ENCELL research group, which focuses on lifelong learning. Lina Acosta works as an Admissions Officer with a special focus on lifelong learning at the University Services.
Pia and Lina's roles within EULiST
Since May 2024, Pia and Lina are part of EULiST's Life-Long Learning Practices, which focuses on lifelong learning and what is known as non-traditional learning students. Life Long Learning is part of the work package ‘Teaching and Learning’ with the aim of creating an innovative higher education environment through digital solutions, increased mobility and co-creative forms of education. The projects are about developing flexible educational interventions, including micro-credentials, challenge-based learning and lifelong learning.
Can you give some examples of activities you have carried out?
“At the beginning of the project, we compiled the range of lifelong learning courses. We discovered different conditions based on rules and policies that affect our work within the alliance. To promote diversity and inclusion within EULiST, we need to gain a deeper understanding of the diversity of the target group, and we are currently compiling a report on our working methods, challenges and definitions in lifelong learning practices,” says Pia Andersson.
You recently attended a workshop with EULiST colleagues in Vienna. What was the workshop about?
“The workshop focused on deliverables and development projects in our work package Teaching and Learning. We discussed the implementation and evaluation of the EULiST Agora Education Tools and how to document and visualize the results. We reviewed the development of the AI for Education Toolkit, which will create resources for innovative teaching and AI tools in challenge and research-based education. We also discussed how to make the toolkit available through the EULiST website to support teachers in integrating AI into their teaching,’ says Pia Andersson.
How does JU's approach to lifelong learning differ from other higher education institutions?
“JU offers a wide range of courses in lifelong learning and has adapted course content, training elements and admission processes for professionals. This puts JU at the forefront compared to other higher education institutions. We offer many courses in English, which is unique within the alliance. We also have a flexible course structure through our stand-alone courses, which makes it easier to combine studies with work, and promotes lifelong learning on the individual's terms,” says Lina Acosta.
An important difference is that JU offers lifelong learning courses without tuition fees, while most other universities within EULiST charge fees for it.
What do you hope the Lifelong Learning projects can contribute to the Alliance and JU?
“To succeed in lifelong learning, the alliance needs to offer flexible learning opportunities, such as short courses, distance options and international collaborations. This will give students access to cutting-edge expertise from several universities and an internationally anchored education. We also need to adapt our offer to digitalization and labour market needs. Together, we can create relevant programmes for both students and professionals, strengthening the quality of education, attractiveness and international networks,” concludes Lina.
