Developing lifelong education in the SMEs. A work-in-progress program in Italy

This communication reports on a work-in-progress project involving managers of Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) located in four Italian Regions: one of them is a historically less advantaged location. The research attempts to explore needs of training and education of managers and executives in the framework of a new approach to lifelong learning established by the Social Partners. Based on mail surveys and face to face interviews the research try to identify the knowledge and skills that are necessary for effective management in the current business environment. A practical and extensive test on the use of e-learning technologies was also performed.