This study's aim is to identify and examine the present and potential uses and effects of the Continuing Education Unit (CEU) within five groups which had previously expressed interest in the CEU. Reviewed were the medical and engineering professions, labor unions, business and industry, and governmental agencies. Common applications and present and potential effects of the CEU were examined in relation to assuming new responsibilities and curriculum building for new objectives as well as impact on membership and organizational functions, structure, and objectives. As user groups become more involved in the total educational process, systematic approaches are emerging to provide new structure. Efforts toward implementation reveal these questions: (1) what is an "organized continuing education experience," (2) how is "responsible sponsorship" determined, (3) how are qualitative parameters insured, and (4) how can criteria be developed for both local and national groups. A five-page bibliography and 72-page appendix including the National Task Force Interim Statement, correspondence, forms, documents from various professional organizations are offered. (MW)