How can the link between academic research on LLL and professional practice in teaching and learning in ULLL be strengthened and the exchange be organised in such a way that reciprocal benefits and mutual learning are likely to take place? How can the European policy debate on LLL in Universities and beyond to the wider expert community in adult education be stimulated?

The key purpose of the DIALOGUE-Grundtvig network was to bridge the gap between academic research on ULLL and the professional practice around adult teaching, learning and guidance within ULLL provision. It would thus create a European space for DIALOGUE between researchers, practitioners and policy makers in the field. The reinforcement of this knowledge triangle would promote and enhance the development of teaching and learning and the promotion of high-quality ULLL. Through examining innovative approaches and good practices across the European Union and through the sharing of findings from research and development projects and practices, it would raise the profile of teaching, learning and research in adult education and LLL in Europe.

The project would therefore identify the kind of research in which European universities were engaged, the subject areas for the research and the different methodologies and approaches which were utilised in adult education research. It was also to look at ways in which European society could benefit from research in LLL at local, national and international Level.