Why is lifelong learning so important for employability?
Once the career path has been selected, the chosen job has been offered and employment is going well, the individual may ask, what next?
It’s time to think about progression. Do they want to move up through the ranks, or sideways into new roles and new skills? The world of work is always changing.
Lifelong learning is how individuals keep up.
Technologies improve, new roles emerge and people learn to use their skills in new ways. This shouldn’t be considered daunting or overwhelming, it’s exciting and keeps things interesting.
It also leads to personal fulfilment and increased wages.
Why is it important for teachers to continue to learn new skills?
Why is on-the-job training important?
| Lifelong learning opportunities | Lifelong learning challenges |
|---|---|
| The learner could develop new skills which would lead to higher self esteem. | The learner might have to pay for any training which could be expensive. |
| The learner could meet new people during their learning journey and this could improve their social life. | The learner could feel overwhelmed if learning is taking place whilst trying to juggle employment, family life and social life |
| The learner could develop knowledge and skills, leading to further employment opportunities and/or a higher salary. | There is no guarantee that the learner will find employment or an increase in salary after taking part in lifelong learning |
On-the-job training is when a more experienced employee provides training in specific aspects of the job role. This is useful for the company as it means employees are trained to do things the way that a company or employer prefers them.
It also allows the individual to put their new-found skills to work immediately and receive direct feedback on how they can improve.There are several ways that on-the-job training is delivered:
- The employer can send their staff to career development schemes outside the workplace or on courses delivered within the company
- Employers can provide mentoring and coaching opportunities for their employees
- Organisations can provide interactive online training courses that focus on developing the skills of employees.
What are the benefits of off-the-job training?
Off-the-job training is learning which is undertaken in an individuals own time to keep skills up to date. Employers will often pay for this type of training if it contributes to the success of their business.
Off-the-job training is also beneficial to employees in a number of ways - outlined below.
- Gain up-to-date knowledge which will benefit the organisation eg ICT or health and safety.
- Gain different skills; allowing the individual to be more effective and be able to undertake new and different tasks.
- Improve promotional prospects within the company.
- Meet people from other businesses and expand professional networks.
What resources can support lifelong learning?
There are a range of organisations that can assist an employee on their lifelong learning journey.
- NI Direct
- Job centres
- Careers Service Northern Ireland
- Educational Guidance Service for Adults (EGSA)
More on Preparing for employment
Find out more by working through a topic
- count1 of 4
- count2 of 4
