Adult’s education participation is prevalent and has been increasing over the past three decades, according to the National Households Education Surveys. 
The following seven formal and informal learning activities were considered adult education:
• English as a Second Language - classes for adults whose main language is not English.
• Adult Basic Education (ABE) - General Educational Development (GED) preparation and adult high school programs.
• College or university degree programs - part-time degree or certificate programs. Enrollment in postsecondary degree or diploma programs on full-time basis was not considered to be participation in adult education for this study.
• Vocational or Technical diploma programs
• Apprenticeship Programs - formal, on-the-job training leading to journeyman status in a skilled trade or craft.
• Work-related Courses - courses related to work, not including credential or apprenticeship programs. Occupational informal learning activities included supervised training or mentoring, self-paced study using books, video tapes or computers, attending presentations, conferences or conventions, and reading professional journals or magazines.
• Personal development Courses - courses led by instructors that are not included in categories above including courses related to hobbies and interests.
The research found that the most common adult education activities were work-related courses, personal interest and college or university courses.
Societal Factors
Societal factors that influence participation in adult education activities include demographic changes such as:
• An aging population
• The reentry of women into the workplace
• An influx of immigrants
Additionally, technological advancements and a global economy have impacted adult education.
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