G u I d e L i n e s m a n u a L s a n d g u I d e L i n e s

Purpose of this manual 

The CLA manual provides a set of definitions and criteria to ensure international comparability of 

statistics on learning activities. It aims to clarify the fundamental concepts underlying statistical 

information on learning activities. 

An analysis of reference documents carried out during the preparation of the first version of the 

classification showed that there were no definitions of ‘learning activities’ at national level in Europe, 

or at international level either. It was clear that there could be no classification without such 

definitions. This manual is therefore an opportunity to bridge the gap and propose a theoretical scope 

for what is missing in other sources. 

The manual has three main components: 



 

concepts and definitions; 



 

classifications; 



 

operational guidelines. 

General concepts and definitions are presented in chapter 1. The following concepts and definitions 

are included: lifelong learning, learning activities versus non-learning activities, formal education and 

                                                           

 

 

3

  Labour force survey. 

4

  Time use survey. 

5

  Continuing vocational training survey. 

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Introduction 

8 

Classification of learning activities 

– manual 

training, non-formal education and training, and informal learning. The chapter provides the criteria 

that distinguish these three broad categories from each other. 

Chapter 2 presents the classification of learning activities, and chapter 3 presents the broad 

categories, classes and sub-classes, and includes explanatory notes. 

Operational guidelines based on the results of the CLA and testing of the manual carried out while 

the first version of the classification was being prepared are provided throughout the text in the form 

of questions and answers. 

Several cases that illustrate the classification system are included in Annex 1.