In this paper, we review the population learning algorithm and discuss its convergence. This algorithm was proposed as a tool for solving optimisation problems, and the concept underlying this approach is embedded in social educational processes. A convergence analysis of the algorithm is presented by means of a finite Markov chain analysis and by comparing its behaviour to evolutionary strategies in a process of searching for a global solution in a finite number of stages. The proposed population algorithm is also shown to be an alternative tool for solving different optimisation problems.