LLL-LABS

LLL-LABS Functions and Missions

Based on the project objectives, the project identified 3 functions for the LLL-HUB and the LLL-LABS in particular:
•    LLL-LABS may act as Relays of the European policies, initiatives, recommendations;
•    LLL-LABS may be used as privileged Observatories of how LLL is “happening” on the field, in the different countries and Regions, how to observe interesting innovative practices and collect Learners “learning stories” that will enlighten and sustain the reflexion;
•    LLL-LAB act then as Think Tanks, i.e. the framework within which the reflexion takes places, and nurtures the process leading to new recommendations in order to make the common European policies evolve.

Furthermore, the upper levels of the LLL-HUB architecture (LLL-FORUMS and LLL-AGORA) ensure a smooth cooperation and collaboration in the reflexion which should lead to a better common understanding of the local situations, and how to have them slowly but firmly entering a convergence process at European level.

Download Initial Research Methodology for LLL-LABS

LLL-LABS as Relays

Concept
The LLL-LABS are an ideal standpoint to observe, accompany and evaluate how the European initiatives and recommendations about lifelong learning are understood, implemented and evaluated at local, regional and national levels.

During the project research phase
During the project research phase LLL-LABS are intended to provide a set of practical elements to produce a state-of-play of the lifelong learning policies implementation and evolutions in each Country/Region represented in the project.

From stakeholders implementing those policies:
•    acknowledge successful implementation or remaining obstacles for such a success;
•    see the big picture for a successful implementation encompassing various sectors and actors;
•    make a state of art of existing evaluation schemes, processes, instruments, etc. to measure the impact of the actions undertaken;
•    reflect on the lifelong learning approach behind this policy (if any);
•    understand where the political impulse comes from, what is the European political context;
•    be aware of the situation in other EU countries.

From end-users of those policies:
•    listen to what learners and practitioners (field actions) have to say on these policies: what level of satisfaction? What ways for improvement? What genuine impact on real life situation?

LLL-LABS as Observatories

Concept
The LLL-LABS are intended to reflect on how to improve transversal dialogue and cooperation, to break down barriers between sectors, to foster communities of values and practices based on a shared meaning of lifelong learning. We are interested in having the viewpoint of all the different actors in the field, and especially the lifelong learners.

The methodology for practice collection is based on grounded theory and the building of monographs. Once several practices have been collected, it is interesting to find out some “common points” between them. It means thus that the categorization is not made following previously defined categories, but that the categories emerge from the data collected. This work of finding common elements is a collaborative one within the LLL-LAB (field actors, LLL-Learners, professionals, experts, etc.).

LLL-LABS as Think Tanks

Concept
In the functioning of the LLL-LABS, an important activity is to mobilise the intelligence available in the field in order to reflect, exchange, debate, and propose elements in order to support the evolution of local, national and European policies and initiatives regarding lifelong learning.

During the research phase
Starting from the practices gathered, from the experience and expertise of LLL-LABS members, and from an existing history of partnership and projects between their members, the LLL-LABS will make a set of recommendations