The Role of Digital Technology in Promoting Continuing Education in The Context of The Principles of Lifelong Learning in Nigeria

Abstract

Continuing education, a type of educational curriculum that continues some form of previous learning, is designed to deepen an individual's previous education in order to finish, rectify, improve on, adapt to a new degree of demand, or complement it. This could involve expanding chances for reading and writing, as well as continuing learning and training for young people and adults after completing full-time studies or withdrawing from such programmes. Continuing education is subsumed under lifelong learning, which is the process of accumulating knowledge, skills, and competences throughout a person's life, from childhood through adulthood and beyond. Thus, continuing education is founded on the principles of lifelong learning, which is why it is difficult to discuss continuing education without making reference to the principles of lifelong learning. The principles of lifetime learning are guiding concepts and values that underpin the philosophy and practice of lifelong learning. These concepts serve as a framework for comprehending the significance of lifelong learning and how it can be properly implemented. Meanwhile, the current and continuous technological improvements have greatly benefited continuing education. Advancements in technology have made individualised, self-directed continuing education possible. By aligning digital advancements with the principles of lifelong learning, this paper underscores the potential for digital technology to foster an inclusive and sustainable educational ecosystem in Nigeria, ultimately contributing to national development and global competitiveness. This paper is thus an exploration of possibilities in maximising digital technologies for continuing education based on the principles of lifelong learning.