e-Learning for Lifelong Learning in Denmark

education consists of forms of teaching and education that only to a limited degree
are part of the formal, public educational system” and that “Non-formal learning
activities are frequently based on private initiatives by non-governmental organisations
(NGOs)”. No particular school or professional qualifications are required
for participating in non-formal adult education.
All offers are financially supported by the state to keep the tuition fees on a low
level, where everybody can participate. A list is given of what non-formal adult
education comprises:
● Independent non-formal educational activities: evening schools and voluntary
activity in associations
● University extramural courses
● Day folk high schools
● Private independent boarding schools (folk high schools, home economics
schools, arts and crafts schools, and continuation schools)
Regarding voluntary activities and adult learning in associations, in 2005 there were
approximately 19,000 associations in Denmark, of which approximately 2,100 were
in the field of non-formal adult education and 17,000 were voluntary associations.
The adult education can be organised in different ways: teaching, study circles, lectures,
debate-creating activities, flexibly organised activities, and fees are charged
for participation. By offering teaching in evening schools many should be able to
attend. There are approximately 1 million participants each year (compared to 5 million
citizens in Denmark totally!).
Another kind of activities is association work. Association work is offered by associations
in such fields as sports, politics and religious activity, other philosophically
related and socially engaged work with children and young people, and youth clubs,
which, within the framework of the law, make decisions themselves regarding how
they will make use of grants and organise their activity. In 2005 approximately 1.8
million people took part in association activity.
44 e-ASEM White Paper : e-Learning for Lifelong Learning