This article explores the relationship between three basic concepts that are much
discussed by pedagogues, scientists and politicians: changes in the life-courses of
young people, educational opportunities, and ongoing Europeanization. There is a
complex relationship existing between the three ?partners?, with youth, learning and
Europe forming a difficult ménage à trois. But evident to all players in the field is
that educational institutions no longer respond adequately to societal demands and
individual needs. The author suggests that among contemporary European youth are
trendsetters who make their own learning agendas by drawing less on formal
education and more on informal and non-formal learning contexts. This is in parallel
with growing political and scientific consciousness of the need to arrive at new
educational/vocational policies and practices in Europe to serve all young people. |