This report, which is intended for government officials, educators, and others interested in using technology in educational programs for adults, examines the effects of modern technologies on the accessibility, outcomes, and costs of adult learning programs. It draws on conclusions of previous Centre for Educational Research and Innovation (CERI) work on education and technology, particularly on 15 case studies prepared for an international roundtable held in Philadelphia (Pennsylvania) in February 1996. Discussed in chapter 1 are the necessity of using computing, video, and telecommunications in various sectors of postsecondary learning in industrialized nations and the importance of making adult programs accessible, attractive, and relevant to adult learners. Chapter 2 explains how technology can extend access to more learners, improve the quality of learner outcomes, control per-learner costs, and support the following modes of learning: real-time conversation; time-delayed conversation; learning by doing; and directed instruction. Selected technology-supported adult learning services in various sectors of education in different Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development countries are described in chapter 3. Detailed in chapter 4 are various policy options regarding technology-supported educational programs for adults. Among the areas explored are the following: supporting learning equitably; prioritizing planned improvements; addressing courseware shortages; using technology to control costs; and collecting evaluative data. The report's major conclusions regarding policy issues in using technology to support adult learning are summarized in chapter 5. (Contains 127 references and 11 tables/figures.) (MN)