“Education Processes in Life-Course-Specific Learning Environments” focuses on the theoretical foundation and the empirical implementation of surveys collecting data on the characteristics of learning opportunities within the relevant learning environments that can influence the acquisition of competencies and educational processes. Learning environments are conceptualized as providers of learning opportunities, which learners can use for the acquisition of skills and competencies.

In the National Educational Panel Study, learning environments are divided into three categories:

• formal (e.g., school, vocational training, higher education),
• nonformal (e.g., child and youth welfare services, clubs, and religious communities), and
• informal (e.g., family, peers, media) learning environments.