As we approach the New 2016 Year, we present the 12th issue of the journal "Lifelong Learning: XXI Century." The issue covers new approaches to teacher training and lifelong learning quality assurance, as well as the role of individuals and communities in these processes. Our readers interested in modernization of teacher training system in Russia have an opportunity to get acquainted with the unique methodological options for designing educational programs for different levels of professional teacher education. The articles present the authors' interpretation of the following concepts: "cluster-modular approach" and “post-technocratic model of additional professional education." Particular attention is paid to the renewal of the content and forms of continuous professional development for heads of educational institutions.
Several articles associate the quality of education with its continuity and standardization. On the basis of specific local studies, the dependence between the Unified State Exam results and academic performance of first-years students is shown. Another article justifies the necessity of the sequential development of the skills needed to work with certain means of language through the example of training for professional translators. The practices of the Polish colleagues on the standardization of educational services and professional training will be new to the Russian readers. These practices are aimed at improving the quality of adult education and reducing consumer risks related to market relations in education system.
The topic of non-formal education of returnees has already been discussed in the journal and caused a great interest among the readers. In this issue, the author continues this theme by analyzing the motivational impact of teacher’s personality on teaching elderly returnees. Heads of regional and municipal educational institutions will be interested to learn about the potential of professional communities for the implementation of innovative educational projects. Another question is raised for the first time in our journal – specific features of teaching in today's traditional communities, particularly, in the community of the Old Believers.
We sincerely thank all the authors, reviewers and readers that have been with us throughout this year. We draw your attention to the fact that from now on, you can easily share the link to an interesting article with your colleagues on Facebook, Twitter and VKontakte. In addition to that, the digital reading room provides you with an opportunity to learn about the experience of faculty and students of Petrozavodsk State University in the study and implementation of various forms of lifelong education presented in the 2013-2015 collections.
We wish you the year of peace, good thoughts and deeds, and new discoveries in lifelong learning.
The Editorial Board
