Lifelong learning, the continuous pursuit of knowledge and skills throughout life, has become increasingly vital in our rapidly evolving world. But tracing its exact origins to a specific time and place is complex. While the inherent human desire to learn is timeless, the formalization and widespread adoption of lifelong learning as a distinct educational concept are more recent developments, primarily taking shape in the late 20th century, especially within North America. This era saw the rise of institutions dedicated to facilitating learning beyond traditional schooling, particularly for older adults seeking intellectual engagement and personal growth.
The Emergence of Lifelong Learning Institutes (LLIs)
The concept of structured lifelong learning for older adults began to solidify with the establishment of Lifelong Learning Institutes (LLIs). Following initial models at some universities, the movement gained significant momentum in the decades after these early programs were launched. A pivotal moment arrived in 1999 with the Bernard Osher Foundation’s crucial intervention. Recognizing the value of these initiatives, the Foundation began providing financial support for the creation of new LLIs, leading to the establishment of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLIs). The first OLLI, inspired by existing successful LLIs, opened its doors in 2001 at the University of Southern Maine. This marked the beginning of a significant expansion, with numerous OLLIs subsequently emerging at public universities across North America. Today, there are approximately 450 LLIs in North America, with 120 bearing the prestigious Osher name, demonstrating the rapid growth and acceptance of this model. These institutes, though independently run, generally share characteristics such as sponsorship by higher education institutions, non-profit status, membership requirements, affordable courses, and a focus on adults aged 50 and over, fostering a community of engaged learners.
Road Scholar: Pioneering Educational Travel for Adults
Beyond institute-based learning, the landscape of lifelong learning expanded to include travel-integrated education. In 1975, Elderhostel, now known as Road Scholar, was founded by Marty Knowlton and David Bianco. Drawing inspiration from the European Youth Hostel movement and Scandinavian folk schools, Elderhostel offered short, immersive summer programs combining residence and educational travel for mature adults. Starting modestly with 220 participants, Elderhostel experienced rapid growth, extending its programs beyond university settings and evolving into a global educational travel provider. By 2018, before the pandemic, Road Scholar offered over 8,000 educational trips to more than 150 countries. With over 5 million participants since its inception, Road Scholar exemplifies the broadening scope of lifelong learning to encompass experiential and travel-based education.
OASIS: Community-Based Active Aging Through Learning
Another significant development in the formalization of lifelong learning was the establishment of OASIS in 1982. Founded to promote healthy and active aging within communities, OASIS targeted adults aged 50 and older. Initial funding from the U.S. Administration on Aging, coupled with support from the May Department Store Company (now Macy’s, Inc.) providing program spaces, enabled OASIS to launch in four U.S. cities. OASIS distinguishes itself by its strong community focus and its commitment to providing accessible learning opportunities for older adults from diverse educational backgrounds. Offering a wide array of courses, often free or moderately priced, OASIS expanded to 50 cities and partnered with over 700 community programs and institutions before the pandemic, illustrating the decentralization and community integration of lifelong learning initiatives.
Conclusion
While the intrinsic human drive for lifelong learning is age-old, its formal beginnings as a recognized and supported educational movement can be traced to the late 20th century, particularly in North America. The rise of LLIs and OLLIs, alongside pioneering organizations like Road Scholar and OASIS, marks a significant period in the development of structured and accessible lifelong learning opportunities for adults. These initiatives collectively demonstrate a growing societal recognition of the importance of continuous learning throughout life, adapting to diverse needs and preferences, and fostering intellectual and personal enrichment beyond traditional educational pathways.
