No integrated system of lifelong learning exists today. Business, government and education all share responsibility for creating a more open educational system. For example, in today and tomorrow's workforce, a combination of general education and specific training will be required. The credentials for training and education are likely to come from different institutions, e.g., a community college and a university or a proprietary institution and a university.
Today there is no recognized marketplace where training and education co-exist.
In addition, workers of the future will need to continue accumulating modules of knowledge, courses and skills throughout life. With technology enabling individuals to learn any place and at any time, it is more and more likely that workers will accumulate credits from a variety of institutions over three or four decades in the workforce. Individuals would benefit from a lifelong record of learning and accomplishments that would enhance career mobility. While creating the educational mosaic that will support a lifelong learning system, it is important to continue to develop the infrastructure that will bring high quality education to more people. Efforts such as Internet2 and Next Generation Internet will be critical in sustaining the future viability of learning that is accessible to all citizens.