Lifelong Learning as a Method of a Modern Labour Market’s Balancing: Case of Poland

Changing conditions of the modern labor market functioning are reasons for modification of the approach to learning process. Traditional model of learning in the youth, and then the longest possible maintenance of employment in one profession ceases to meet the requirements of modern labor market. Rapid changes in labor market mean that flexibility, inter-sector and geographical mobility is promoted but also continuous acquisition of knowledge and competence development have significant importance. In this context, widely understood system of education is challenged. One of its important element is concept of lifelong learning. The challenge today is to shape and change attitudes at all levels of learning. The paper presents main problems in implementing of concept of lifelong learning in Poland in division into groups: children, adolescents and younger adults, adults and seniors. The period of analysis covers years after 2004. As the analysis shows, the most important challenge for the education in Poland is further dissemination of pre-school education, especially in rural areas and increase in participation of adults in lifelong learning. In formal education, there is still disadvantage of low link between theory and practice. There are also significant disparities between general and vocational education in favor of the former. A preparation of schools to use ICT methods in educational process is weak. In Poland, learning process is generally identified with formal education, hence it is important to influence the society towards recognition of non-formal education significance. This could increase activity and mobility, which could contribute to labor market balancing.