In 1979 he wrote The Adult's Learning Projects. Research in Education Series No. 1. Toronto: Ontario Institute for Studies in Education. In this book, he explained how most adult learning takes place outside of institutional frameworks. According to the research of Alan Tough, the overwhelming majority (about 70%) of adult learning takes place outside institutional frameworks. Note that about 20% of the learning are supported by others who are not professionals helpers, such as supervisors, colleagues, parents, friends, etc. Professional helpers, such as teachers, trainers, and counselors direct only about 5% of our learning. This could be attributed to the following:

• The learner has a desire to control the learning process.
• Non-institutional learning allows for a flexible time commitment.
• Non-institutional learning is attainable at a low cost.