Publications

The UNESCO Institute of Lifelong Learning (UIL) undertakes research, capacity building, networking and publication on lifelong learning with a focus on adult and continuing education, literacy and non-formal basic education. Its publications are a valuable resource for educational researchers, planners, policymakers and practitioners. Many of our publications are available in multiple languages, and some are available in multimedia format. For a full list of publications, see our Catalogue.

Publishing

UIL produces a broad spectrum of studies, reports and informational material on lifelong learning, adult education and literacy. The Institute publishes the longest-running international journal on the comparative theory and practice of formal and nonformal education, the International Review of Education–Journal of Lifelong Learning, a peer-reviewed periodical which accepts articles in English and French. It also publishes the textbook series African Perspectives on Adult Learning / Perspectives Africaines de l’Éducation des Adultes (APAL), written by and for scholars working in Africa. The Institute is also responsible for the production of all documentation related to the International Conferences on Adult Education (CONFINTEA), in particular the triennial Global Reports on Adult Learning and Education (GRALE).

UIL researchers produce, write or edit new publications every year, often in conjunction with other institutional partners and collaborators. Their works covers many development themes including adult education and learning, lifelong learning and policy, and literacy and basic skills. For a list of new publications, see here.

Series

UIL publishes several series to support its work in lifelong learning, policies and education; adult literacy and basic skills; adult learning and education.

• African Perspectives on Adult Learning / Perspectives Africaines de l’Éducation des Adultes (APAL) is a textbook series that is intended to support the practice of adult education in African contexts. Topics in this series include the context, cultural factors and leadership of adult education in Africa.
• Lifelong Learning Policies and Strategies. This series was started in 2014 to reflect UIL’s interest in supporting research on effective policies and good practices that can be used as evidence to advocate for the mobilization of lifelong learning. The aim of this series is to analyse the changing contexts and key issues, and identify which policies, strategies and practices have been most effective.
• Policy Briefs. These briefs (or briefings) are based on the latest research and strive to provide high quality analysis and practical recommendations on important lifelong learning issues. UIL policy briefs are intended to provide extensive information on our areas of expertise and to inform decision making.
• Research Papers. This series is intended to present cutting edge research from the field. UIL recognizes that research from practice provides a valuable service for practitioners and policy makers alike. Global writers and researchers contribute to this series and all contributions are peer-reviewed.