Provides an overview of personal and situational influences on health professionals' participation in systematic learning activities that reflect gaps between learner's current and desired proficiencies. Concludes with suggestions for planning, conducting, and assessing effective learning activities. (JOW)

Summaries of impact evaluations are presented to indicate the extent and types of studies that have been conducted. Studies reflect various segments of the field: employers, continuing professional education, adult basic education, career education, external degrees, libraries and counseling, continuing education of women, and discussion groups…

If educational programs for adults are to have greater impact and fulfill their promise, more attention must be given to comprehensive programs and their potential for achieving major benefits for organizations, communities, and society. (SK)