An extension of Alan Tough's original research on adult learning activities, the study surveyed large populations in rural and urban Tennessee to analyze learning patterns of adults engaged in learning projects. Data were collected from random samples of 277 adults in Knoxville and 149 dwellings in Monroe County. Tough's interview technique, an intensive probing of the adult's learning project activities occurring over a period of one year, was used to collect learning project data. Adults in Knoxville completed an average of 4.1 learning projects and Monroe County averaged 3.1 projects, which is below the number reported in related studies. Job-related projects and recreational projects were most popular with adults in both samples, while religious studies were more frequently conducted in the Monroe sample. Three-fourths of the adults interviewed directed their own learning projects, with approximately one-half needing additional help at some point. The major obstacle faced by members of both samples in conducting learning projects was lack of time. Most expressed a desire to continue their education but few desired formal credit. Rural adults seemed to have a low level of awareness of educational opportunities. The appendixes, bound in a separate 137-page volume, contain supplementary materials. (EA)