This report of a project to begin to develop a plan for research, development, and instruction in adult vocational education in Illinois has two specific goals: (1) to identify the current status of adult vocational education in Illinois and (2) to recommend key directions for state actions. It presents information collected through a comprehensive review of literature supplemented by interviews with key individuals involved in adult vocational education in Illinois and by information obtained from adults with a need for vocational education. Following an introductory section and another discussing the current status of adult vocational education, major groups of adults who need and could benefit from vocational education are considered individually in five sections. These groups consist of adults who are (1) seeking to upgrade occupational skills for purposes of occupational maintenance or advancement, (2) planning or undertaking a mid-life career change or re-entering the paid work force after an extended absence, (3) unemployed and/or underemployed, (4) seeking vocational education for avocational purposes. Each section describes problems encountered in delivering vocational education to each of these groups, identifies exemplary programs and available opportunities for each group, and makes recommendations for action concerning delivery of vocational education to each group. (YLB)