The project pushed forward the state-of-the-art by combining theoretical perspectives, multi-level analysis and mixed-method approaches. This innovative approach was strengthened by probing new analytical units, such as the category of Functional Regions, by expanding the understanding of LLL programmes or by envisaging reflexive ways of countering imbalances and disparities in LLL policy-making.
The comparative case studies helped grasp the complexity of inter-relations in LLL policy-making, thus leading to a deepened interrogation of causalities, functionalities and peculiarities of each case. Analyses made a strong case for listening to the voices of young adults and including them more concretely in the policy-making process. Apart for this, the project has broken new ground for studying local and regional structural environments, especially highlighting the need for context-sensitiveness.
In responding to the Call Young-3-2015, the project generated new knowledge on the impact of LLL policies on young adults´ life courses and to study how unearthing their hidden potentials can stir economic growth and guarantee social inclusion of groups in vulnerable positions. The results and findings of YOUNG_ADULLLT research project have several important societal implications:
First, since the end of the last century, there is an ongoing debate on the role of education in promoting economic wealth. Investing into the education systems, including LLL policies, is seen as key factor of a successful and sustainable development. YOUNG_ADULLLT´s findings contest the assumed linear relationship between work and education, as they highlight the need for a more independent and holistic education, one that cultivates not only skills and competencies of a future labour work force, but creates learning environment for critical thinking, self-realisation, emotional and spiritual growth, as well as social compassion and responsibility.
Second, attention was devoted to understanding youth´s living conditions, transition and experiences of vulnerability. YOUNG_ADULLLT argued that by looking into highly heterogeneous and de-standardised life courses of young adults that the chance of understanding their visions, desires and needs rises significantly. Based on these assumptions, YOUNG_ADULLLT´s findings challenge the common notion of young adults as ‘unwilling’ or ‘passive’ recipients of social benefits, including education, but as active shapers not only of their lives, but also of the future of their communities, families and societies.
Third, YOUNG_ADULLLT looked into how policies at local and regional levels are designed and developed and how the interrelations within as well as between Functional Regions shape the local dynamics and general social environment. In this regard, YOUNG_ADULLLT has strongly emphasised the rising importance of Functional Regions and local and regional policy-making, since the more the local specificities are accounted for, the higher the chance for a pluriversal, dynamic and united European community.
