Literature of Leadership -April Book Review

FREE-RANGE LEARNING IN THE DIGITAL AGE: THE EMERGING REVOLUTION IN COLLEGE, CAREER, AND EDUCATION. Peter Smith. (2018, Kindle Edition)

Many higher education institutions are under pressure to address the needs of adult learners who seek alternative learning opportunities and recognition for knowledge gained along their education and career pathway. Free-Range Learning in the Digital Age describes the “silent learning revolution”- the new and emerging programs, services and technologies that are liberating learning in the Digital Age. Authored by Dr. Peter Smith, an internationally recognized leader and innovator in adult and lifelong learning, the book highlights new ways to think about learning, recognize and validate knowledge, and explore alternative learning opportunities in today’s emergent digital learning environment.

The book is organized into three sections. The first section introduces the concepts and value of formal and informal learning experiences, both inside and outside college, that collectively reflect what Smith calls, one’s “hidden credentials”. In section two, real-life experiences of adult learners are profiled to illuminate the range of available educational resources, as well as the practical value of alternative pathways to higher education credentials and career success. Section three describes the emerging ecosystem of new learner-centered practices and resources that support “free-range learning”.

This book will appeal to adult learners seeking alternative pathways to a better future; higher education professionals who desire to understand the barriers experienced by adult learners, and the emerging new ecosystem of innovative programs, services and resources that are designed to facilitate alternative learning options; as well as employers who value and seek to encourage and recognize “free-range learning” in the workplace. An inspiring read.

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