Conducted in Europe during the summer of 1971, the study attempts to show how three nations--Denmark, France, and West Germany--have taken steps to deal with the problems of economic growth in an advanced industrialized society by reconceptualizing the role of adult education. In the first four chapters the components of a new continuing education and training program for the United States are presented by examining the steps taken by the three nations studied. The study examines: specific programs, funding problems, legislative action, philosophy, training objectives, administrative responsibilities, and successful innovative measures. The final chapter builds on the basic building blocks offered by the three nations and suggests funding sources for a new program. Concluding that success is based on expanding employment, as has been the pattern in the United States, legislative action in the form of a continuing education and training act is proposed and steps suggested for its implementation. The appendix offers legislative documents pertaining to the organization of continuing education programs in France and the Employment Promotion Act of the Federal Republic of Germany. (Author/MW)