The basis for all computer-assisted instruction at the Continuing Education Learning Center at Jackson State University is the instructional techniques necessary for the success of at-risk adult learners who find traditional methods inadequate. Each learner is pretested for reading level for placement, and skill assessments are made to diagnose specific weaknesses in content areas. Individualized competency-based education programs are designed to address content weaknesses that must be overcome if the learner is to succeed in the work force or the center's General Educational Development (GED) program. The computer-assisted instruction in these programs allows learners to learn at their own pace, helps make them accountable for their own learning, provides frequent feedback, and accommodates several learning styles. All of those aspects of instruction are needed by at-risk students. The center uses interactive and personal computers, video- and audiocassettes, printed material, and tutoring. Custom-designed programs include one targeted for 16 prison inmates and another that trains women older than 55 to be home health aides and child care workers. The average basic reading level improvement is 1.8 grade levels per 100 hours of training. Of the learners enrolled in the GED Preparation Program, 63 percent pass 1 to 5 subject area tests in a maximum of 100 hours of training. Ninety-three percent of learners pass subject area tests the first time they attempt them. The program's attrition rate is 16 percent. (CML)