This paper features several articles previously published in the CAEL (Council for Adult and Experiential Learning) Forum and News, an e-newsletter CAEL regularly shares with its members. This publication includes a summary of the data gathered in CAEL's 2006 institutional survey on PLA (Prior Learning Assessment), results of a research on…

Discusses initiatives in Appalachia and the Northwest region related to barriers to adult education in rural areas. Results of research confirmed that the public is not aware of rural problems and issues and that governmental support is lacking. (JOW)

Refutes myths about adult learners: (1) adults require less instructor time; (2) adults desire to return to school; (3) adults are capable decision makers; (4) adults bring valuable experiences to the classroom; and (5) adults know what they want. (Contains 26 references.) (SK)

The adolescent and adult population with learning disabilities (LD) continues to be underserved and underprepared to meet the demands of postsecondary education. Evidence pertaining to postsecondary education outcomes for the population with LD is extremely bleak. One purpose of this article is to situate thinking about adolescents and adults with…

A study framed by sociocultural theory involved 15 British Caribbean women immigrants in the United States. Home country culture and early schooling involved learning experiences in the host country. They faced challenges in negotiating language and identity. Length of time in the new culture, level of social support, and sociocultural environment…

Adults looking to gain a foothold in the changing economy are seeking a college degree in greater numbers. Yet, their "non-traditional" characteristics--part-time enrollment, full-time employment, financial independence, and/or parental responsibilities--create needs and priorities that differ from those of traditional students and make it…

Examines the growing number of adults pursuing lifelong learning within and outside of educational settings. Looks at the reasons adults are returning to postsecondary education, adults' learning traits, and the skills teachers should cultivate to deal effectively with adults in a learning situation. (DMM)

Conceptualizing adult learning draws on two types of analysis: (1) describing and understanding practice and (2) discourse analysis. These forms of analysis are linked to modern and postmodern perspectives. (SK)

Practitioners are finding that adult education approaches are effective with adolescents. Emphasis on student-centered, participatory methods and development of learner autonomy prepares students for adult roles. (SK)

This article describes 35 individuals who have expressed an interest in taking university courses after retirement. Longitudinal data and individuals' own accounts are presented, in an effort to clarify the role that symbolic resources play in individuals' lives, for their capacity to construct their own identity, to function as social actors, and…

The paper reports on the findings of a Learning and Skills Research Centre (LSRC) funded study investigating the impact of different modes and methods of assessment on achievement and progress in post-secondary education and training. Data were collected across Advanced-level academic and vocational preparation programmes in schools and colleges,…

Andragogy continues to generate discussion and capture the imagination of many adult educators. However, early critics have been joined by an increasing number of educators, researchers, and practitioners who question andragogy's theoretical and practical efficacy. This article reviews the nature of the andragogy debate and advances a revised…

This paper reviews work completed during the second year of a three-year project on postsecondary learning opportunities for adults. Background information includes perspectives on adult learning, issues of scope and definition, and a brief review of Postsecondary Education Commission projects related to project objectives. A review follows of…

This packet is presented for use as a trainer's manual in offering technical assistance and teacher training to refugee English as a second language (ESL) programs. It is the result of a working session of experienced professionals that was convened by the Language and Orientation Resource Center (LORC), and it presumes some previous knowledge of…

This manual provides labor education advisors with basic information on adult learners, specifically members of a union, and barriers to lifelong learning. Definitions of adult learners and lifelong learning are first provided. A background section reports that the number of adults representing the rank and file union membership enrolled in…