08/12/11 Conference: Learning for citizenship in the 21st century

Making a Difference: Learning for citizenship in the 21st century Thursday 8 December 2011; 9.15am to 4pm The Abbey Centre, 34 Great Smith Street, Westminster, London, SW1P 3BU In the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Royal patron of the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education Background What does it mean to be an active citizen in the 21st century? And what kinds of learning – formal and informal – will help us participate, take action, and make our contribution? This forward-looking conference will highlight the role of learning – both formal and informal – in shaping how and why we can become active citizens in the 21st century. Patterns of participation in civil society are changing. More traditional forms such as voting and joining political parties are in decline while involvement in socially purposeful movements is growing. Rapidly changing technology offers unprecedented possibilities for communication and mobilisation across continents yet the need for a neighbourly ethic of care and community-based action seems as strong as ever. Drawing on the perspectives of learners, practitioners, policy makers and researchers, this conference will explore what it means to ‘participate’ as a citizen. It will examine the types of learning that foster civic activity, social networking, political processes and community life, that equip us to speak truth to power, and support action for wider community benefit - whether that community is outside our front door or on the other side of the world. Outcomes The conference will provide delegates with: updates on current debates, policy and practice in relation to learning for active citizenship; examples of useful and inspiring practice in developing and delivering learning for active citizenship; outcomes of the latest research into active citizenship; and information and useful resources to support the development and delivery of learning for active citizenship. Audience The event will be useful to practitioners, policy makers and managers across the further and higher education sectors. It will also be of benefit to local authorities and other public sector bodies, businesses and third sector organisations that are interested in strengthening their contribution to the well being of local communities through their support for active citizenship, socially purposeful initiatives, and civic and democratic participation. Those paying the event fee will receive a copy of the publication: "Taking Part? Active Learning for Active Citizenship, and Beyond" by Marjorie Mayo and John Annette priced at £24.95 + P&P For further details and to reserve a place; look up: http://www.niace.org.uk/campaigns-events/events/making-a-difference NIACE (The National Institute of Adult Continuing Education, England and Wales). A company limited by guarantee registered no. 2603322 and registered charity no. 1002775, Registered address: 21 , De Montfort Street, Leicester, LE1 7GE, UK www.niace.org.uk NIACE (Sefydliad Cenedlaethol Addysg Barhaus i Oedolion, Lloegr a Cymru). Cwmni cyfyngedig drwy warant rhif cofrestredig 2603322 ac elusen rhif cofrestredig 1002775, Cyfeiriad cofrestredig: 21 , De Montfort Street, Caerlyr, LE1 7GE, DU www.niacedc.org.uk