In this paper, the author would like to put forward a number of issues to think about and discuss. At the same time, she argues for a better articulated system that more closely matches the needs and goals of various subgroups of English language learners. Adult ESL programs serve diverse immigrant populations with different needs and goals. A…

The Arlington (Virginia) Adult Learning System (AALS) represented a model for transitioning adult learners of English as a Second Language (ESL). Involving several service partners who collaborated with the Arlington Education and Employment Program (REEP), the project illustrated effective ways of linking community-based organizations, adult…

An external, formative evaluation of a component of the Arlington Education and Employment Program (REEP), formerly Refugee Education and Employment Program) is reported. The component, AALS, is a transitional program linking the adult education program (REEP), Marymount University (Virginia), and a local community-based Hispanic organization. An…

A study of English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) education in the United States is summarized. Focus is on special challenges in providing ESL education and promising ways in which providers are meeting those challenges. An introductory section describes the context of current ESL instruction, including the nature of the learners' needs and…