Since 1971 dramatic changes have occurred in the field of adult education, especially in competency-based adult education and life skills/adult performance level curricula. In the 1080's, adult education will have reduced federal aid. Other changes may include a return of operational authority to the states and localities, a redefinition of the federal role as one of support, and a need for increased private sector involvement in education. While the child population is declining, older Americans are looking to adult education to solve problems caused by technological advancements and social and economic changes. Education must change to provide for lifelong learning and to rediscover the human aspect of productivity by preparing individuals to accept a new level of responsibility for their own development, for advancement of their communities, and for development of the economy. A proposed three-part strategy to accomplish these goals includes (1) preparing citizens who understand the changing context of the 1980's; (2) making changes in educational institutions that are necessary to support the citizenry in tasks of personal, family, community, and economic development; and (3) improving the basis for the cooperation of institutions at local and regional levels. (YLB)