Writing for and Because of Lifelong Learning

Year 2019, , 1 - 7, 15.01.2019

Tanju Deveci

https://doi.org/10.12973/eu-jer.8.1.1

Abstract

Once a privilege for the members of the elite, writing
is now a staple of everyday life accessible to the masses. Despite its
significance for individuals’ economic, psychological, and educational
well-being, it may not always be utilized to its full capacity. This is partly
due to reductionist approaches to writing without full consideration of its
various manifestations in life. This paper will argue that writing is more than
the inscription of letters and symbols on paper (or on screen). The common
misconception that highly developed artistic skills are a must for one to be a
“good” writer often prevents individuals from engaging in rewarding learning
experiences in and outside of formal education contexts. The realization of the
ways in which writing in fact is a part of our daily lives and therefore cannot
be divorced from learning throughout life will reduce concerns about a possible
lack in writing skills. It will also be maintained in this paper that there is
complementarity between lifelong learning and writing; just as lifelong
learning requires the utilization of writing skills, greater involvement in
writing and enhancements to one’s writing skills support lifelong learning
skills. This paper will also propose that an emphasis on writing across
curriculum in formal education settings as well as outside of formal education
will help prepare individuals for engagement in continuous learning throughout
life.

Keywords

Writing, lifelong learning, critical thinking, literacy, informal learning

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