Transportation was a problem for one of the women. One quit the program for health reasons. One quit because her husband's health problems meant he could not work and she had to return to the labour force. All of the women were in the program for at least two years. Three of them continued for longer and entered ABE Intermediate. Despite the problems they mentioned, there were other underlying causes for dropout: a change in the program; and realizations that are common to other ABE students.

At a time of financial restraint the centre's instructional staff was cut back. The literacy instructor was an older woman, close to retirement and was let go. When she left, there was only one instructor to handle everything in the centre. These women then missed the individual attention they had received. Also, as they progressed they were automatically mixing with students of younger age and higher levels. Some of them felt they were under pressure and being "pushed" although they were told to work at their own pace. Some of their comments were: It was hard to keep up with the young students," and “I would like a group of my own age.” “I felt rushed,” said another, and there was "not enough time for individual help." "The other instructor was too high a level for me. I spent a lot of time sitting with no work," said another. One of the women came to realize the “impossibility of getting Grade 12 in the time available, and there are no jobs anyway.” She also disliked the frustration of not grasping fast enough."

Despite these comments, however, all of the women improved their literacy skills, were glad of the experience and three of them said they would go back if the classes were free. “I loved school. I loved the teachers,” said one woman. “I liked the nice atmosphere,” said another, and added, "the instructors were like friends you would invite over for coffee." “I was glad I came and sorry I left,” said another. Others said: “I came to learn for myself, once you get involved you enjoy it” “I can write letters now, but not with perfect spelling, and I can figure out the best buys.” “It was good to have the class here. It would have been impossible to have gone into town.”