After having gained approval of the European Social Fund Agency Flanders, a group of faculty members and researchers of the Vlerick HRM Centre will proceed to the second phase of the research project “Towards lifelong learning: Stimulating a positive learning climate in organisations”. The project is co-financed by ESF funds. With this project Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School contributes to the objectives defined by the Treaty of Lisbon to develop systems and strategies for lifelong learning within companies.

The main objective is the development of a learning scan and two educational brochures for line managers and employees to assess and foster the learning climate in organisations. Special attention goes to the inclusion and active participation of older and low-skilled employees in learning processes, two groups who on average participate less in lifelong learning.

Twelve companies volunteered to engage in the project as pilot companies. The research results of this project are expected to be ready mid 2011. In the third and final phase of the project the learning scan that has been developed will be disseminated for use via coordinating organizations and companies.

Research team: Dirk Buyens, Mieke Van de Woestyne, Tina Davidson, Katleen De Stobbeleir and Jonathan Remue.

What is the European Social Fund (ESF)

Since 1957 the ESF has helped millions of Europeans to get jobs, acquire new skills and find better jobs. The EU Member States and regions manage ESF funds, to deal with the diverse employment challenges they face. ESF projects bring real improvements to individuals’ lives and opportunities. Projects open doors to work and help people get better jobs.