TY  - JOUR
T1  - A content analysis study on research articles in the field of lifelong learning
AU  - İspir, Rümeyda
AU  - Çakmak, Melek
PY  - 2025
DA  - December
Y2  - 2025
JF  - Journal for the Education of Gifted Young Scientists
JO  - JEGYS
PB  - Genç Bilge Yayıncılık
WT  - DergiPark
SN  - 2149-360X
SP  - 191
EP  - 203
VL  - 13
IS  - 4
LA  - en
AB  - This study aimed to determine the topic focus and methodological orientation of research articles published in an international journal on lifelong learning by conducting a content analysis. Within the scope of the study, 72 research articles published in the journal between 2023 and 2024 were analyzed using descriptive and thematic analysis. As a result of the content analysis conducted on the topic focus of the reviewed articles, four distinct themes emerged: "Adult Learning Processes and Experiences," "The Impact of Digitalization and Technology on Adult Education," "Educational Policies and Programs" and "Professional Development and Career-Focused Learning." The results of the methodological analysis conducted on the articles showed that the studies predominantly used qualitative data collection tools, while others employed quantitative, mixed and document-based methods. An examination of the participants in research articles focusing on lifelong learning revealed that the studies included adults of all ages, university and graduate students and individuals with diverse professional backgrounds. Current research findings reveal that studies focused on lifelong learning hold a significant place in the education systems of many countries worldwide and that lifelong learning is being examined from different perspectives. In light of these research findings, it is recommended that individuals' digital competencies and skills be thoroughly examined, as they have become increasingly important in adult learning processes within the context of lifelong learning in recent years. Furthermore, designing new research on a broader range of lifelong learning topics, conducting comparative studies and examining these topics from different perspectives could significantly contribute to the existing literature in this field.
KW  - lifelong learning
KW  - adult education
KW  - content analysis
KW  - research articles.
CR  - * Scoping review articles.
*Aarsand, L. & Jarvis, C. (2023). Teaching parenting in a pandemic: Social and pedagogical discourses. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(4), 375–388. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2220077
CR  - *Abdon, E., William, F. & Tandika, P. (2023). Assessment of the community’s technological literacy in the use of mobile phones for rural development. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(3), 270–282. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2196096
CR  - *Ade-Ojo, G. O. & Duckworth, V. (2024). A transformational approach to addressing the needs of a new 
generation of ‘left behinds: A preliminary exploration of the dominance of ‘it/digital literacy’ in organisational 
processes. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(4), 343–354. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2365797
CR  - Akbaş, O. & Özdemir, S. M. (2002). Avrupa Birliği'nde yaşam boyu öğrenme [Lifelong learning in the European 
Union]. Milli Eğitim Dergisi, (155-156), 112-126. 
https://dhgm.meb.gov.tr/yayimlar/dergiler/milli_egitim_dergisi/155-156/akbas.htm
CR  - Akın, G. (2023). Biographical learning as a lifelong learning and adult education theory. Trakya Journal of 
Education, 13(2), 1146-1162. Doi: 10.24315/tred.1124714
CR  - Babanlı, N. & Akçay, R. C. (2018). Yetişkin eğitimindeki kursiyerlerin yaşam boyu öğrenme yeterlikleri [Lifelong 
learning competencies of trainees in adult education]. İnönü Üniversitesi Eğitim Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi, 5(9), 
87-104. https://doi.org/10.29129/inujgse.411354
CR  - Babenko O., Koppula S., Daniels L., Nadon L. & Daniels V. (2017). Lifelong learning along the education and career 
continuum: Meta-analysis of studies in health professions. J Adv Med Educ, 5(4),157-163. PMID: 28979909; 
PMCID: PMC5611424.
CR  - *Baker, S., Gunn Watkinson, M., Honeyman, F., Mowll, J. & Tyulkina, S. (2024). Rethinking student engagement for 
‘hyflex’ teaching and learning in post-compulsory settings: Acknowledging flexibility and agency needed for 
unplanned events. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(4), 432–447. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2359595
CR  - *Barefield, T. (2023). Emergence studios: Bringing collaboration and iteration into the social sciences. 
International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(2), 165–176. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2173324
CR  - Beycioğlu, K. & Konan, N. (2008). Yaşam boyu öğrenme ve Avrupa eğitim politikaları [Lifelong learning and 
education policies of the European Union]. Elektronik Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi, 7(24), 369-382.
CR  - *Bonnes, J. (2024). Digital transformation in adult education centres in Baden-Wuerttemberg. International 
Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(4), 324–342. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2363243
CR  - Bowen, G.A. (2009). Document analysis as a qualitative research method. Qualitative Research Journal, 9 (2), 
27–40. https://doi.org/10.3316/QRJ0902027
CR  - Braun, V.  &  Clarke, V. (2019). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Journal of Qualitative Research in 
Education, 7(2). https://doi.org/10.14689/issn.2148-2624.1.7c.2s.17m
CR  - Braun, V. & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 
77–101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
CR  - *Brewster, B. J, & Miller, T. (2023). Women’s mathematics anxiety: A mixed methods case study. International 
Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(1), 8–23. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2271670
CR  - *Broek, S., Kuijpers, M. A. C. T., Semeijn, J. H. & van der Linden, J. (2024). Conditions for successful adult learning 
systems at local level: Creating a conducive socio-spatial environment for adults to engage in learning. 
International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(2–3), 200–223. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2338366
CR  - Cascio, M. A., Lee, E., Vaudrin, N. & Freedman, D. A. (2019). A team-based approach to open coding: 
Considerations for creating intercoder consensus. Field Methods, 31(2), 116–130. 
https://doi.org/10.1177/1525822X19838237
CR  - Cendon, E. (2018) Lifelong learning at universities: Future perspectives for teaching and learning, Journal New 
Approaches in Educational Research, 7(2), 81–87. https://doi.org/10.7821/naer.2018.7.320
CR  - *Clover, D. & Sanford, K. (2024). Unearthing a hidden curriculum of gendered museum languages through 
critical feminist visual discourse analysis. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(2–3), 246–258. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2341761
CR  - *Cossa, J. (2023). Eduardo Mondlane: The lifelong learner, adult educator, and African scholar-revolutionary. 
International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(5), 501–514. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2262152
CR  - Cronholm, S. (2021). Lifelong learning: Principles for designing university education. Journal of Information 
Technology Education: Research, 20, 35-60. https://doi.org/10.28945/4686
CR  - *Cuming, T., Verdon, S., Hoffman, L., Hopf, S. C. & Brown, L. (2023). Mothers’ experiences of engaging in blended 
online learning in higher education. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(2), 177–194. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2173815
CR  - *Çoban, M. (2023). Investigation of the relationship between higher education students’ service quality 
perceptions, attitudes, and self-efficacy towards distance education. International Journal of Lifelong 
Education, 42(1), 37–58. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2022.2140363
CR  - *Eliüşük Bülbül, A. & Yalçınkaya, D. (2024). The regulatory effect of self-control in the relationship between life 
satisfaction and lifelong learning motivation in adults. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(6), 625–
639. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2376670
CR  - *Friedman, A. L. (2023). Continuing professional development as lifelong learning and education. International 
Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(6), 588–602. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2267770
CR  - *Fujioka, M., Reimer, K. & Saito, E. (2024). ‘It wasn’t just Japanese’: A tertiary language programme to help 
students prepare for the next stage of life. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(5), 540–552. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2368155
CR  - *Geerts, N., Schirmer, W., Vercruyssen, A. & Glorieux, I. (2023). Bridging the ‘instruction gap’: How ICT instructors 
help older adults with the acquisition of digital skills. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(2), 195–207. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2174197
CR  - *Griffith, M. M. & Pamphilon, B. (2024). Case study: Adult learning and public health—a foundational training 
programme in field epidemiology with lessons and opportunities for collaboration. International Journal of 
Lifelong Education, 43(1), 52–66. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2308300
CR  - *Grotlüschen, A. Dutz, G., & Skowranek, K. (2024). Writing with artificial intelligence? Ad-hoc-survey findings raise 
awareness for critical literacy at the International Literacy Day. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 
43(4), 371–384. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2349657
CR  - *Grummell, B. (2023). Recognising diverse learning rhythms, relationships and temporalities in adult literacy 
learning. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(6), 603–615. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2268843
CR  - Güleç, İ., Çelik, S., & Demirhan, B. (2013). Yaşam boyu öğrenme nedir? Kavram ve kapsamı üzerine bir 
değerlendirme [What is lifelong learning? An evaluation on definition and scope]. Sakarya University Journal Of 
Education, 2(3), 34–48. https://doi.org/10.19126/suje.27105
CR  - Günen, M.S. & Vural, Ö.F. (2023). Lifelong learning barriers: a theoretical research. Journal of Multidisciplinary 
Studies in Education, 7(4), 164-180.
CR  - *Hainzer, K., Gard, C., O’Mullan, C. & Brown, P. H. (2023). A design approach for financial literacy curriculum 
targeting smallholders in Papua New Guinea. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(3), 231–248. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2213845
CR  - *Håkansson Lindqvist, M., Mozelius, P., Jaldemark, J. & Cleveland Innes, M. (2023). Higher education 
transformation towards lifelong learning in a digital era – a scoping literature review. International Journal of 
Lifelong Education, 43(1), 24–38. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2279047
CR  - *Hautopp, H. & Ørngreen, R. (2024). From training to practice: Long-Term perspectives of graphic facilitation 
used in organisations. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(2–3), 145–162. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2325601
CR  - *Hayman, R., Wharton, K., Bell, L. & Bird, L. (2024). Navigating the first year at an English university: Exploring the 
experiences of mature students through the lens of transition theory. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(1), 39–51. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2297671
CR  - Jakobi, A. P. (2009). Global education policy in the making: International organisations and lifelong learning. 
Globalisation, Societies and Education, 7(4), 473–487. https://doi.org/10.1080/14767720903412275
CR  - *Karger, T., Kalenda, J., Vaculíková, J. & Kočvarová, I. (2024). Online learning platforms and resources in adult 
education and training: New findings from four European countries. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 
43(4), 417–431. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2358896
CR  - *Keates, N. (2024). Developing an online improv comedy course: An action research study. International Journal 
of Lifelong Education, 43(2–3), 277–294. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2344588
CR  - Koç, S.  (2024). Teachers’ views on lifelong learning. International Journal of Contemporary Educational 
Research, 11(2), 250-261. https://doi.org/10.52380/ijcer.2024.11.2.621
CR  - Korkmaz,  A.,  Sever,  M.  N.,  Aydın,  M.  V. &  Gültekin,  N.  D.  (2023). Yaşam boyu öğrenme üzerine hazırlanan 
tezlerin ve TR dizinde taranan makalelerin içerik analizi [Content analysis of theses and articles indexed in TR 
directory on lifelong learning]. Sosyal, Beşeri ve İdari Bilimler Dergisi, 6(4): 462-479. 
https://doi.org/10.26677/TR1010.2023.1213%20
CR  - *Korpela, V., Pajula, L. & Hänninen, R. (2024). Investigating the multifaceted role of warm experts in enhancing and hindering older adults’ digital skills in Finland. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(5), 509–522. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2353176
CR  - Laal, M. & Salamati, P.(2012) Lifelong learning; why do we need it? Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 31, 
399-403, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2011.12.073.
CR  - Labuschagne, A. (2003). Qualitative research - airy fairy or fundamental? The Qualitative Report, 8(1), 100-103. 
https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2003.1901
CR  - *Lan Nguyen, H. & Zarra-Nezhad, M. (2023). Enhancing sustainable lifelong learning in higher education for 
uncertain transitions: A mixed method investigation into Vietnamese undergraduates’ strategies. International 
Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(4), 389–405. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2226346
CR  - Loeb, S., Dynarski, S., McFarland, D., Morris, P., Reardon, S. & Reber, S. (2017). Summary and conclusions (Section 5, 
s. 39). Descriptive analysis in education: A guide for researchers (Publication No. NCEE 2017 4023). Institute of 
Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED573325.pdf
CR  - *Lyndgaard, S. F., Tatel, C. E., Pham, V., Melkers, J. E. & Kanfer, R. (2024). Towards a multidimensional measure of 
self-efficacy in the adult learning ecosystem. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(6), 579–602. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2369895
CR  - Mollaibrahimoğlu, M. (2016). Türkiye’de yaşam boyu eğitim politikaları [Lifelong learning policies in Turkey]. 
Journal of Life Economics, 119-125. https://doi.org/10.15637/jlecon.145
CR  - Morgan, H. (2022). Conducting a qualitative document analysis. The Qualitative Report, 27(1), 64-77. 
https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2022.5044
CR  - *Naz, Z. & Beighton, C. (2024). Dis/placing teacher identity: Performing the ‘brutal forms of formalities’ in English 
further education. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(5), 553–567. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2368720
CR  - *Noprival, N. (2024). Gaining English and other foreign languages through immersion: Lessons from Indonesian 
polyglots. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(6), 640–650. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2376672
CR  - OECD (2013). The survey of adult skills: reader’s companion. OECD Publishing. http://dx.doi.org/10.1787/9789264204027-en
CR  - *Ogbuanya, T. C. & Salawu, I. A. (2024). Analysis of influence of personality traits on career satisfaction and job 
performance of electrical/electronic technology education lecturers in Nigeria. International Journal of Lifelong 
Education, 43(2–3), 224–245. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2341760
CR  - Özüdoğru, G., Baltacı, Ö. & Özçakır, B., (2020). Türkiye’de hayat boyu öğrenme konusunda yapılan tezlerin 
bibliyografik değerlendirilmesi [Bibliographical evaluation of the theses in Turkey about lifelong learning]. 
Nevşehir Hacı Bektaş Veli Üniversitesi SBE Dergisi, 11(2), 829-842. https://doi.org/10.30783/nevsosbilen.772581
CR  - *Papadopoulos, D. (2023). Individualising processes in adult education research: A literature review. 
International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(1), 8–21. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2022.2135141
CR  - *Patino, A. & Naffi, N. (2023). Lifelong training approaches for the post-pandemic workforces: A systematic 
review. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(3), 249–269. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2214333
CR  - *Pervin, N. & Mokhtar, M. (2023). Lifelong learning opportunities for professional women in Bangladesh: To what 
extent does patriarchy act as a barrier? International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(5), 451–469. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2238903
CR  - *Petridou, E. & Lao, L. (2024). Identifying challenges and best practices for implementing AI additional 
qualifications in vocational and continuing education: A mixed methods analysis. International Journal of 
Lifelong Education, 43(4), 385–400. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2351076
CR  - *Sato, T., Waku, T., McKay, C., Nakamura, I., Yamaguchi, T., Nagata, S., … Furuta, Y. (2024). Japanese adult learners’ 
experiences in an online social justice and diversity recurrent education program in sport and physical activity. 
International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(2–3), 182–199. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2336238
CR  - *Scheidig, F. (2024). Online courses for adults: Do they replace or supplement on-site courses? International 
Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(6), 682–693. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2391888
CR  - Sirem, Ö. (2024). Türkiye’de yaşam boyu öğrenmeye odaklanan araştırmaların incelenmesi: 2019-2024 dönemi 
[Examination of research focusing on lifelong learning in Türkiye: 2019-2024 period]. Journal of History School, 
70, 1694-1712. http://dx.doi.org/10.29228/Joh.75546
CR  - *Sörman, D. E., Åström, E., Ahlström, M., Adolfsson, R. & Körning Ljungberg, J. (2024). The influence of personality 
traits on engagement in lifelong learning. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(2–3), 259–276. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2343013
CR  - Thwe, W. P. & Kálmán, A. (2023). Lifelong learning in the educational setting: A systematic literature review. The 
Asia-Pacific Education Researcher, 1–11. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40299-023-00738-
w
CR  - Urhan, N. (2020). Hayat boyu öğrenme: Avrupa Birliği ve Türkiye karşılaştırması [Comparison between the European Union and Turkey]. Çalışma ve İlişkiler Dergisi, 1(Special Issue), 18–45.
CR  - *Van Nieuwenhove, L. & De Wever, B. (2023). Delving into psychosocial beliefs about lifelong learning: A comparison across educational levels. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(1), 77–100. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2022.2150331
CR  - *Viking, T. & Hylin, U. (2024). Ideas on how educators facilitate interprofessional learning through controversies. 
International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(6), 651–663. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2384612
CR  - Yenil, S. & Şahan, G. (2024). Hayat boyu öğrenme alanında 2013-2023 yılları arasında Türkiye’de yapılmış 
araştırmaların incelenmesi [Review of research on lifelong learning in Turkey in the years 2013 to 2023]. Bayburt 
Eğitim Fakültesi Dergisi, 19(41), 1843-1869. https://doi.org/10.35675/befdergi.1321521
CR  - *Weßner, A., Mohajerzad, H., Fliegener, L., Bernhard-Skala, C. & Rohs, M. (2024). Consensus in uncertainty. A 
group Delphi study on the impact of digitalisation on the continuing education of low-qualified adults in 
Germany. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 43(4), 355–370. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2024.2356812
CR  - *Yılmaz, O., Demir, E. M. & Atay, B. (2023). Task-related competencies: Knowledge, skills, and abilities of the 
helping professionals. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 42(5), 487–500. 
https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2262149
CR  - *Zolkwer, M. B., Hidalgo, R. & Singer, B. F. (2023). Making educational videos more engaging and enjoyable for all 
ages: An exploratory study on the influence of embedded questions. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 
42(3), 283–297. https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2023.2196449
UR  - https://dergipark.org.tr/en/pub/jegys/issue//1804323
L1  - https://dergipark.org.tr/en/download/article-file/5333248
ER  -