Call for abstracts: Advancing research on adult learning through quantitative approaches

Call for abstracts from CEDEFOP - European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training

Dear Education Experts,

We are pleased to invite you to submit abstracts for our upcoming research conference on Advancing Research on Adult Learning: Using and Innovating Quantitative Approaches to Support Effective Policies, taking place 12–13 October 2026.

Why This Matters

In today's rapidly changing world, shaped by technological advancement, economic transition, and evolving labour markets, adult learning has become essential to sustainable development. As automation and AI reshape work itself, adults must continuously develop and refresh their skills. Robust quantitative research is vital for understanding participation patterns, measuring policy effectiveness, and ensuring adult education systems respond to real workforce needs.

Cedefop bridges data producers, policymakers, and researchers to strengthen evidence-based discussions on adult learning.

This conference offers a unique forum for presenting and exchanging research, ideas, and insights that can directly inform policy development.

Important Dates

• Abstract submission deadline: 15 May 2026

• Notification of acceptance: 15 June 2026

• Registration for presenters opens: 15 June 2026

• Registration for broader audience opens: 1 July 2026

We Invite Your Submissions

We welcome abstracts addressing:

• Theoretical considerations on measuring adult learning

• Using data to inform policy advice

• Survey design and implementation on related topics

How to Submit

Please submit an abstract of no more than 500 words via the abstract submission link.

Your abstract should clearly outline:

• Your topic and research objectives

• Methodology and data sources

• Key findings (if available)

• Relevance to the conference themes

All submissions will be reviewed by our team, and selected abstracts will be presented at the conference.

Practicalities

Conference participation is free and subject to registration. As places are limited, confirmation is on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation costs.

We would greatly appreciate it if you could circulate this call for papers among education experts who may be interested.

We look forward to receiving your submission and to an enriching exchange of ideas and research.

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