The decision-making process of potential ABE students as they consider enrollment was explored. An adoption process model was used to assist in the analysis. The model consists of five stages: (1) awareness, (2) interest, (3) evaluation, (4) trial, and (5) adoption. Research related to the adoption process and to the communication process was synthesized to identify ways in which the ABE staff might be more effective in influencing the decision-making process of potential students. Current recruitment practices in the field of ABE were then analyzed to determine how consistent they were with the research findings. Preliminary estimates of the appropriateness and effectiveness of such recruitment practices were made at each stage of the adoption process. Recommendations are given in two sets, those which are relevant to specific stages of adoption and those which concern recruiters. Nine references for additional study are provided. (For related documents, see AC 014 526-534.) (DB)