This survey of adult education in England and Wales includes a brief historical review, and chapters on the role of the state and local authorities; evening institutes and adult centers; residential colleges; the "responsible bodies" (i.e. the universities and the Workers Education Association); education in the military, prisons, and other institutions; women's organizations; industry and commerce; other national organizations; societies and clubs; rural areas; mass media; correspondence study; libraries, museums and art galleries; adult students and their characteristics; participation; research, theory, and practice; recruitment and training of adult educators; and prospects for the future. Appendixes contain information on adult education in Wales, and statistical tables on characteristics of adult students and participation information. A bibliography is included. (MF)