This report reviews adult education policies within the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). It asserts that human resources and their impact on the economy depend on the kind of education and training the labor force receives. The main features of governance and finance, participation patterns, and present concerns are discussed. An appendix…

Economic growth and the welfare state have lengthened initial obligatory education; specialization is postponed; general education widens. Nevertheless, many youths in industrialized Europe leave school for work at 16; losers in the generalized school, they resist further learning. Schools should provide a variety of learning situations, and work…