Theoretical models and concepts of lifelong learning

On the one hand, a review of different models and concepts of lifelong learning shows that lifelong learning has certain common basic characteristics, i.e. it is lifelong (from "cradle to grave"), it is life-wide (it takes place in different contexts), and it focuses on learning. On the other hand, such an overview also shows that different models and concepts of understanding lifelong learning are in use and that lifelong learning is also a "slippery" and "ambiguous" concept, as it contains different and competing conceptualisations. Based on the analysis of relevant theoretical literature, we argue that lifelong learning is a multidimensional concept that combines different models and conceptualisations of lifelong learning and highlight the fundamental building blocks of a holistic understanding of lifelong learning.