The study verifies in a national probability sample some of the findings of Tough and associates regarding self-initiated and self-planned learning. The in strumentation of this field research survey advances the art a step beyond the in- depth probings of more limited samples and makes available a data base for com parative investigations. About 80% of the American population 18 years and older perceive themselves to be continuing learners, and involvement in self-initiated learning projects is almost as high (76%). The reasons uncovered for planning one's own learning project are new and indicate great emphasis upon setting one's own pace within an individually determined learning style.
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