How, and where, do adults learn once they have left formal schooling? For those who identify as lifelong learners, where does technology fit into the equation? This report from the Pew Research Center answers these questions and more as it discloses the learning activities of nearly 3,000 Americans, aged 18 and older. As researcher John Horrigan reveals, learning in a physical setting, such as in a classroom, a library, or a place of worship, is still the preferred choice for most adults. In other words, learning activities are still very much place-based pursuits of knowledge.

While focused on life long learners, this report can still provide useful information for all of us in the ATE community as we think about the needs of the student population in our classrooms and virtual environments - according to the report, 35% of those who responded that they have done "personal learning" reported that they have done so at an educational institution. The data from the report may also be helpful for better understanding the knowledge base and attitudes of students and parents as we reach out to recruit. For example, 61% of the adults surveyed had little or no awareness of the concept of distance learning and 80% felt they didn't have much awareness about Massive Open Online courses (MOOCs).

Another finding from the study, that may come as a surprise to readers, is that access to information technology is still very much an issue. While the Internet plays an important role in personal and professional learning pursuits for those who already have high levels of education and easy access to technology, such as a home broadband connection or a smartphone, the Internet remains on the periphery of learning activities for those with less education and lower incomes. Along with an abundance of analysis and key findings, the study is filled with colorful graphs and charts, which can be viewed on this site or are available via downloadable PDF.