Work-Based Learning (WBL) in Higher Education and Lifelong Learning in the Netherlands

In this chapter, developments and issues in the Netherlands with regard to work-based learning (WBL) and its relevance for higher professional education (HPE) and lifelong learning (LLL) are discussed. While traditionally in LLL the emphasis was on formal and non-formal learning in organized settings (adult education), nowadays there is growing awareness of the importance of informal LLL in the workplace. Different and more intensive patterns of interaction between companies and HPE are being developed to improve the connection between learning in education and in the workplace. There are steps towards an effective pedagogy of WBL as employers and HPE strive for high-quality outcomes. As a final point, the authors discuss the recent developments with regard to accreditation of prior learning as a way to raise the qualification levels of the working population.