It's never too late

Julia Owen explores the merits of lifelong learning.

Most people like learning new things. Continuing our learning throughout life is a great way of keeping us energised, engaged and in touch. Sadly, some people are put off learning because of tough times at school, but a bad school experience shouldn't stop us from learning now. Whatever your past, and whatever you've achieved in education, there are hosts of fantastic learning opportunities just waiting to be grabbed.

The Learn section will help you think about how you learn and what learning means to you.

Browse the Learn pages to explore:

  • the secrets of better learning
  • how you learn best - your preferred 'learning style'
  • where to find the courses and methods that suit you best (after all, everyone's different)
  • the value of sharing your knowledge with others.
The world's your oyster
Many people planning for the second half of their lives place learning high on their 'to do' list. It's the perfect time to find out about different places and cultures, or learn a new sport or workplace skill. You might want to develop new interests - genealogy, photography, managing an allotment or doing voluntary work. Or maybe you'd like to learn a language or embark on a degree course?

Is there something you've always wanted to learn but haven't had the confidence to try? If so, our All systems go feature offers some great advice on how to get your learning underway.

Share your knowledge
Every day brings new information and new learning challenges. But we should never forget that the skills and knowledge we already have can be a valuable resource for other people. Words from the wise takes a look at the importance of sharing knowledge, particularly between different generations.

Get online
A 2007 survey conducted by Hitwise UK1 revealed that any day now, 'silver surfers' (current lingo for internet users aged 55 and over) will overtake the 35-44 age group for online activity. From uploading a photo to Skyping your sister in Australia, Ride the silver wave unravels the many wonders of the web for over 50s.

In the words of American writer and futurist Alvin Toffler 'The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn.' These days it's all about adaptability and trying something new.

Take a look around, test your wits with a workout or listen to a learner's success story. But whatever you do, be inspired!

Have you got a story to tell? Or any comments or questions about this article? If so, contact us today!

1Hitwise UK

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quote startThe illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn.quote end

Alvin Toffler, American writer and futurist
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All systems go

In need of a pep talk? Barrie Mellor reveals the secret of successful learning.

Words from the wise

Never underestimate your personal worth. Richard Broome looks at the importance of knowledge sharing.

Ride the silver wave

From uploading a photo to video-calling your sister in Australia, Sally Robinson takes you on a whistle-stop tour of the web's top learning hot spots.

 
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WHAT IS YOUR LEARNING STYLE?

Workout

GET THE FACTS ABOUT LEARNING

Get the facts

MENTOR IN YOUR TOWN

Things to do

ASK THE GERIATRIC!

Think again, dream anew

 
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Do you wish you'd paid more attention at school?

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