A project was conducted to develop a preliminary data base describing the academic, vocational, and occupational education needs of the Illinois older adult population (ages 50-70). A second purpose was to provide a state information base to aid in educational planning for older citizens. Utilizing available data bases, various state-wide demographic characteristics of older adults were synthesized, and agencies and organizations that serve the educational needs of older citizens were identified. An interview instrument was developed and administered to 509 volunteer older adults of two types: those interested in education and those not involved in any educational enterprise--in four areas of Illinois. It was found that (1) older adults currently employed were more interested in educational experiences; (2) the oldest adults enrolled in learning activities to gain knowledge, acquire recreational skills, and meet people; (3) adults with more formal education desired further learning; (4) formal educational institutions offered varied subject matters but had rigid time schedules and restrictive requirements, (5) senior centers offering educational activities had flexible time schedules and coordinated offerings with other centers to expand diversity, and (6) major barriers were transportation, personal constraints, lack of information, disinterest, poor health, fear of failure, and competition. (The interview guide is appended.) (YLB)