Adult Education, *Continuation Education,

A biographical inventory, an ability test, and three reading tests were administered to 699 persons who were hopeful about beginning course work at the University of Calgary. These students were categorized as Mature Non-matriculants because they did not have senior matriculation which is necessary for normal entry to the university. A total of three groups were compared; (1) those who wrote tests but did not enroll in courses; (2) those who wrote tests, enrolled and dropped out; (3) those who wrote tests and successfully completed courses. Differences were found between the first and third groups in verbal ability and reading. A second study was conducted using only the successful Mature Non-matriculant students. In addition to the data from the first study, a battery of new tests were administered including a personality measure, a values scale, a study habits inventory, and a need-achievement test. All data was intercorrelated with the criterion-grade point average. Results seemed to follow those of the first study, that is, students are more likely to be successful if they excel in reading ability, verbal aptitude, and study habits. (Author/KJ