This article offers a preliminary overview of a study that investigates the experiences of adult learners residing in rural communities in the state of South Australia. Online delivery of adult education is growing, allowing more individuals who are remote from learning sites to engage with further education. Increased educational opportunity to participate in learning as well as social policy developments with an emphasis on continuing education offers a chance in research to understand the developments generated by adult education. The work presented here shows a way of investigating social engagement offered through education, especially those that allow rural students to enhance their chances across the life course. It does so through engaging with the reports from adult students. Understanding the role of education through the social experiences of adult students in rural communities highlights the role of education in the areas of personal, social and community development.