Thirty-two authors from a wide variety of backgrounds reflect trends concerning basic assumptions, theoretical concepts, goals, and processes in continuing education in nursing. The purpose of the book is to provide nurses and adult educators with a conventient reference to program designs, methods, methods of implementation, and learning aids. Part 1 attempts to define continuing education in nursing and clarify the role of government, regions, State, health institutions, and individuals in nursing continuing education. Selected articles written by nurses working in continuing education (Part 2) cover various aspects of program implementation: learning climate, training needs, inservice education, staff development, multimedia instruction, and financial support. Part 3 concerns personnel involved in a continuing education course or program--director, advisory committees, program planners, staff, and participants. In Part 4, articles by persons involved in course evaluation for continuing education in nursing describe several different approaches to and methods of evaluating courses, participants, and staff. The concluding section includes articles exemplifying successful continuing education programs under the direction of nurses. (Author/EA)