Interest does not vary by income level, diminishes only slightly with age, and seems to reflect the pressures of working in a knowledge-based economy. Getting educated once is not enough. Interest in additional education is highest among those who already have college training, and those with college training are the ones who are most often continuing their education. Students need tailored educational services. Teaching conducted only in the traditional classroom will not meet the public's demand for tailored educational services.
Distance education is a key to providing lifelong learning.
Fifteen percent of adults in the survey had experience with distance education. Almost three-fourths think more courses should be developed using distance methods. People who are most likely to seek additional education have relatively greater access to home and workplace computers. Some adults are losing out. Although lifelong learning is a real need for most Americans, some are losing out.