Definitions of Lifelong Learning and How They Relate to the Engineering Profession

This chapter traces the international, national, and professional definitions of lifelong learning and how they relate to the engineering profession. In the twenty-first century, it is becoming increasingly important for engineers to be able to educate themselves in order to keep up with a global business model of adaptability and change. Being able to recognize the need for lifelong learning and having the skills to self-educate are two of the requirements of a good engineer. The foundation for developing lifelong-learning skills begins in the university, continues through mentoring and internship programs, and takes full effect on the job in the form of engineers who can develop workplace literacy skills that enable them to push ideas through an entire product life cycle. This type of engineer can revolutionize his or her career and his or her corporation, but lifelong learning is a skill that must be continuously promoted and developed.