Major concerns of educators and government officials in Europe regarding the post-compulsory school system are explored. The document is presented in five chapters. Chapter I discusses problems of access to education, the transition of school leavers to employment, and employment problems of school dropouts. Chapter II investigates objectives of adult education and explores motivations for participation in adult education programs. A major area of concern is whether adult education is a tool for social equalization, professional advancement, or self-fulfillment. Chapter III examines social premises and ideology surrounding lifelong education. Chapter IV presents critical remarks on some ideological assumptions of continuing education. Chapter V reviews comparative research on educational development in eastern and western Europe. Recommendations are made for translating research findings into guidelines for action, developing a historical analytical framework, and restricting the scope of studies about the future of continuing education to a period of 15 to 20 years. A section of notes and references concludes the document. (DB)