A study compared two groups of adults in a suburban community who were attending weekly classes on a voluntary basis; one group attended avocational classes in the public school and the other, classes in a Protestant church. The purpose was to learn whether sex, occupational role, family status, family background, education; influence of friends, personal needs and goals, or a sense of commitment differentiated the groups. A total of 118 persons were interviewed, given the Allport-Vernon-Lindzey Study of Values, and classified by the Hollingshead Two Factor Index of Social Position. The churches had greater appeal to persons in the highest social position, who had interest in others, sought friends or enjoyed a certain teacher, and felt obligation to the church. Public school classes had greater appeal for persons who liked more precise knowledge, sought creative expression and relaxation, a sense of accomplishment, and practical skills. No other significant variation was found. The paper called for a program of adult education experience designed to enhance stability and wholeness, Christian living, and adult expression of faith. (author/ly)