a variety of contexts, its meaning is often unclear. A learning approach that can be used to define lifelong learning is heutagogy. There are several established contexts for lifelong learning beyond traditional "brick and mortar" schooling: Home schooling involves learning to learn or the development of informal learning patterns Adult education or the acquisition of formal qualifications or work and leisure skills later in life Continuing education which often describes extension or not-for-credit courses offered by higher education institutions Lifelong learning institutes, which are groups over 50 years of age which meet for noncredit college-level study for intellectual challenge and social enjoyment Knowledge work, which includes professional development and on-the-job training Personal learning environments or self-directed learning using a range of sources and tools including online applications E-learning is available at most colleges and universities or to individuals learning independently. Online courses offered for free by many institutions. One new (2008 and beyond) expression of lifelong learning is the massive open online course (a MOOC), in which a teacher or team offers a syllabus and some direction for the participation of hundreds, sometimes thousands, of learners. Most MOOCs do not offer typical "credit" for courses taken, which is why they are interesting and useful examples of lifelong learning. Emerging technologies Lifelong learning is defined as "all learning activity undertaken throughout life, with the aim of improving knowledge, skills and competences within a personal, civic, social and/or employment-related perspective". It is often considered learning that occurs after the formal education years of childhood (where learning is instructor-driven—pedagogical) and into adulthood (where the learning is individually-driven—andragogical). It is sought out naturally through life experiences as the learner seeks to gain knowledge for professional or personal reasons. These natural experiences can come about on purpose or throughout life's unpredictable course. 'Knowledge results from the combination of grasping experience and transforming it' (Kolb 1984: 41). The concept of lifelong learning has become of vital importance with the emergence of new technologies that change how we receive and gather information, collaborate with others, and communicate. Assistive technology As technology rapidly changes, individuals must adapt and learn to meet everyday demands. However, throughout life, an individual's functional capacities may also change. Assistive technologies are also important considerations under the umbrella of emerging technology and lifelong learning. Access to informal and formal learning opportunities for individuals with disabilities may be dependent upon low and high tech assistive