Is it the time for learning? Experiences and narratives from low skilled workers.

Abstract

The economic crisis that hit the Western world starting from 2009 had a dramatic impact on employment. Low educated workers, who very often are also employed in low skilled positions, were among the ones who paid the highest price to negative economic conjuncture, showing their extreme vulnerability. In Italy, 33% of the population between 25 and 64 years old has only lower secondary education. This is a much higher percentage than in other OECD countries, among which neighboring France, Germany and Spain. Over the years 2014-2016 an international research group financed by Cedefop studied, through in depth interviews, the condition of low skilled workers in seven European countries, among which Italy. In particular, the research investigated the attitude of low educated/low qualified workers towards lifelong learning, their experiences and difficulties in facing transitions and re-placements, in some cases “suffered” or even imposed by the negative economic situation, in some others strongly desired. This article aims to present and discuss the results of the research conducted by the Italian team.