NEPS-Stage 8 examines lifelong learning in adulthood. With a focus on formal, non-formal and informal education, this stage covers the entire range of educational activities and learning processes. Learning in adulthood is closely linked to previous formal educational careers and employment history, but also to other aspects of the life course, such as partnerships, children, unemployment and retirement.

Central research questions

• What do educational and employment trajectories look like in Germany and how are they intertwined?
• Why do adults participate in formal, non-formal or informal learning activities after initial education? What opportunities and obstacles arise in learning processes in later adulthood?
• How do the skills of different groups of people differ and develop and what role do the employment situation and professional activities (job tasks) play in this?
• How do specific educational contexts in adulthood (especially employment situation and family constellation) affect educational decisions and participation in continuing education?
• What returns (e.g. wages, employment careers, well-being or social engagement) do formal and non-formal qualifications, further education, skills and employment experience bring?
• What impact do technological change and digitalization have on educational and employment trajectories?

Further information

Detailed description of the concept and design of the Stage 8 survey program