Definition

Formal or non-formal learning – of a general or vocational nature – undertaken after initial education and training to:

• acquire general education in topics of particular interest (e. g. in open universities);
• acquire core skills not acquired earlier during initial education or training, such as literacy, numeracy – this is called compensatory learning – and thus to;
• gain access to qualifications not obtained, for various reasons, during initial education and training – this is called second chance education;
• improve or update knowledge and skills (upskilling);
• acquire new skills for a career move (retraining / reskilling);
• ensure social integration (e.g. language courses for migrants).

Source: Cedefop (2023) "Terminology of European education and training policy: A selection of key terms"