This paper on adult informal learning is divided into four sections. Section 1 examines different conceptions of informal learning and the issues and limitations associated with alternative definitions of informal learning. Section 2 is a review of empirical research on the estimated extent, role, and outcomes of informal learning and posited…

Based on the experiences of teachers of adult continuing education, this manual was developed to introduce adult educators to the field and the practice of adult education, especially in universities. The book is organized in seven chapters, each containing practical material along with observations of the adult educators. The introductory chapter…

Designed to help instructors create a supportive learning environment for older than average students, this guidebook outlines the special needs of adult students and offers advice on instruction and course management. Each chapter of the instructor's manual corresponds to a chapter in "Time for College," a book designed to teach adult students…

The Build Up: ESOL for Construction course was developed by Louise Cottom at Peterborough Regional College as part of the Basic Skills Agency's contribution to the ASSET UK Project. The course was designed to provide the students with a 60-hour general introduction to the construction industry in the UK and to develop the English language skills…

This study of social capital employs data from the Longitudinal Study of Adult Learning (LSAL), funded by the National Center for the Study of Adult Learning and Literacy (NCSALL) and conducted at Portland State University to increase understanding of the learning process of adults with limited formal education. It provides longitudinal data on…

A study identified and compared characteristics of enlisted soldiers who participated in postsecondary educational offerings to those who did not and identified barriers to participation for participants and nonparticipants. Individual and focus group interviews were conducted with 92 soldiers at one Army installation. Nonparticipants named these…

The use of learning technologies in the workplace and their impact on lifelong learning were examined. Data were collected from three sources: the literature on learning technologies and labor market trends affecting the adoption, implementation, and success of learning technologies in the workplace; case studies of 8 Canadian firms with 100 or…

A study was conducted to assess the needs of adult learners at Gateway Community-Technical College (GCTC), in North Haven, Connecticut. An extended literature review resulted the choice of the three-part Adult Learner Needs Assessment Survey (ALNAS). In spring 1993, the ALNAS was administered to adult learners in classes at GCTC, resulting in 400…

This study describes instructional design elements most valued by nontraditional adult learners in hybrid learning environments that combine limited face-to-face contact with online learning and collaboration. It identifies the online course features and instructional goals selected as most important by a sample of 67 adults. It then compares this…

Existing knowledge of computer conferencing is synthesized to indicate how it could address some of the current professional difficulties faced by Ontario teachers with regard to computers in the classroom, and strategies and guidelines for introducing such a computer-mediated learning approach into educational activities are provided. This report…

A case study is presented of a course for experienced tertiary teachers at the University of New South Wales. The course, "Learning and Teaching," was a compulsory part of a masters program for those involved in teaching the health professions. Classroom events were used to identify and illustrate some general principles of adult…

The assumptions and practices underpinning the pedagogy of online delivery of vocational education and training (VET) in Australia were examined. Data were collected through a literature review, workshops at three participating technical and further education institutes, and a survey that elicited response from 200 teachers and 110 students.…

The vocational education program at California State University at Long Beach received a three-year grant to design and field-test a training curriculum in the area of curriculum-based vocational assessment for secondary school students with handicaps. A series of eight training modules was developed during the first project year (June 1986 to May…

A survey of literature on adult learning and learners conducted for Palau Community College (PCC), Koror, Palau, found a lack of literature specific to the United States-affiliated Pacific region. Background information was compiled on development of formal education in Palau. A survey was administered in fall 2001 to adult learners working toward…

Michael's Informal Test of Student Ability (MITOSA) is a diagnostic evaluative tool for adult students designed to test nine skills abilities in adult students functioning below a tenth grade level. The nine test sections are approximate reading level, understanding of basic math concepts and symbols, general thinking/reasoning ability, eye-hand…