Exploring Human Resource Development: Adult Learning and Education in the U.S.

Abstract The twentieth century has witnessed an upsurge of Human Resource Development (HRD) activities reflected through globalization and overall economic initiatives to improve the economy. This paper undertakes a critical approach to adult education in the United States and does so through the lens of human resource development issues, trends and policies. Through the use of key reports and other recent literature, adult education is placed in a wider economic development framework. It concludes that there is a future for adult education in the United States with implications for the program to provide a more comprehensive lens for understanding adult education programs and economic issues.