Computer-mediated-communication (CMC) tools allowing learners to be in contact with native speakers of their target language in other locations are becoming increasingly flexible, often combining different modes of communication in a single web- and internet-based environment. The literature on telecollaborative exchanges reveals, however, that…

Since 1991, the U.S. has had a national research and development (R&D) center focused on programs that help adults to improve their language, literacy, and numeracy skills; to acquire a General Educational Development (GED) or other high school certification; and to transition into postsecondary education or training. For the first five years,…

In recent years, there has been an increased recognition of the importance of parenting and the way in which parenting programmes can be an effective intervention in changing behaviour and parent-child interactions. The aim of this research, funded by the Department for Education and Skills, was to provide a map of parenting programme provision in…

This conference explored the relationship between the public library, community-based adult education, and lifelong learning. The eight commissioned papers presented include: "Community Based Adult Jewish Learning Program: Issues and Concerns" (Paul A. Flexner); "Rural and Small Libraries: Provisions for Lifelong Learning" (Bernard Vavrek);…

This inaugural issue of the Journal of the National Institute on the Assessment of Experiential Learning begins with the article, "Semantic and Conceptual Ambiguities in Prior Learning Assessment" (Richard J. Hamilton). It is the basis for a session presented at the National Institute on the Assessment of Experiential Learning in June…

This study explored the teaching processes in mathematics education for adults and how they are shaped by certain social and institutional forces. The study addressed three broad questions: (1) What happens in adult mathematics classrooms? (2) What do these phenomena mean for those involved as teachers or learners? and (3) In what ways do "frame…

These four papers are from a symposium that was facilitated by C. J. Wallington at the 1995 conference of the Academy of Human Resource Development (HRD). "The Effectiveness of an Electronic Performance Support System (EPSS) on Learning and Performance" (Theo J. Bastiaens, Wim J. Nijhof, Harmen J. Abma) reports on a study of Dutch…

A study critically reviewed 14 dissertations that explore adult women's perspectives on their learning in higher education. The dissertations were examined using two levels of analysis: descriptive and critical/comparative. The studies varied considerably in the aspect of learning or learning experiences that they examined. Twelve focused on adult…

The purpose of skills-training needs-assessment is to identify what type of skills and knowledge are needed to support economic strategies and, as a result, improve organizational decisionmaking related to training investments and general work force development. This paper presents findings of 11 skills-retraining, needs-assessment,…

This publication lists 29 suggestions for ways in which practitioners can develop self-esteem in adults with learning disabilities. It defines self-esteem and discusses the benefits of fostering an individual's sense of self-esteem. Incorporation of these suggestions into the learning situation is recommended as a way to help establish an…

This publication lists teaching techniques that have been suggested as effective with adults who have suspected or diagnosed learning disabilities. The list is not all inclusive, but it does provide suggestions for techniques and methods that may be useful in teaching adult learners. The techniques are grouped into four categories: (1) to improve…

This book is designed to provide specific and practical suggestions for teachers and tutors of adult students. It is divided into two major parts. Part 1, which is devoted to adult learning, includes information on the characteristics of adult learners, their expectations and motivation, and issues related to equal opportunities and access. Part 2…

The theory of transformative learning, the process of making meaning of one's experience, emerged from the work of Jack Mezirow and has been explored through numerous research studies and critiques over the last 20 years. The purpose of this monographic is to provide greater insight into the transformative learning theory. The paper begins with an…

Since spring 1995, the Army III Corps at Fort Hood and the Texas A & M University System have collaborated to deliver distance learning courses to the military and their family members at Ft. Hood. Also, Ft. Hood has a leading role in the Army's transition to a worldwide distance learning development and delivery program. The effectiveness of…

In addition to the cult mystique that the notion of self-directed learning (SDL) has attained, controversy has arisen over its definition, its proper environment, and other issues. Consequently, a number of issues have arisen. The first is that adults are naturally self-directed. The reality is that adults' reactions to and capability for SDL vary…