DESCRIPTORS

According. to recent censu populatidil are over 65 years old. It has oft ind.vidual,learning needs and ' capabilities dec challenge this idea, a study was conducted to gas, r, information about older adults, their learning interests, activities, and obstacles. Four hypotheses were tested through a series of interviews With 256 adults (55 and over) in Nebraska. The interview schedule was tested tor reliability and validity. Data were analyzed utilizing tables with frequencies, percentages, and mean scores as well as a drossbreak analysis and, t,-test of significance for testing some hypotheses. Dati from the study revealed a need for more suitable continuing education programs based on the following-findings: (1) obstacles to learning selected most often were "don't like to go out at night. " '1not enough time, " "cosi, " '"home responsibilities, " and "job responsibilities; " anal (2) courses selected as an.indicatIon of learning interests indluded "ptretching YOur Retirement Dollar, " "Tax Benefits for Older Americans,."Outdoor Flora", "Medical Care in- the Retirement Years, " and "LawS Affecting the Aged.". The study's design, findings,'redommendations, and implications of the study are presented. Data collection materials, miscellaneous tables, and compariSon data on learning Projects are appended. (Author/EC