This nine-chapter monograph deals with the purpose and context of basic education, starting with the basic learning needs that education must meet. Chapter 1 focuses on the rationale for education for all. Chapter 2 explores the interplay between the educational process and culture, including the complex issues associated with language. Chapter 3 considers the implications of new and broader concepts of literacy in designing strategies to reach adult learners. The impact of scientific discovery and technological change on learning needs and on the content and processes of basic education to meet those needs are examined in Chapter 4. Chapter 5 takes a closer look at the relationship of education and training to economic and social development including the world of work. Chapters 6, 7, and 8 focus on three major educational components that can affect the quality of life and that deserve space in basic education programs: environmental education, population education, and health education. The final chapter draws attention to some of the main questions that will have to be addressed in the areas of cultural maintenance and development, language policy, achieving adult literacy, preparation for life in an increasingly technological world, and quality of life. The World Declaration on Education for All is appended. (YLB)