In this brief report, we summarize the results of an experiment on the interpretation of English word order patterns by adult Korean- and Japanese-speaking second language learners. Our results suggest that a direct relationship between a construction's word order and the structure of the corresponding event has a greater facilitative effect on…

This study builds upon the concept of alignment within the curriculum (due to Biggs) and suggests, in the context of two current examples, an integrated methodology for effectively aligned development activities within universities. Higher Education institutions face important challenges. Firstly, quality enhancement of the curriculum is now an…

This paper is based on the project "Recognition of Tacit Skills and Knowledge in Work Re-entry" carried out as a part of the ESRC-funded Research Network "Improving Incentives to Learning in the Workplace". The network aims to contribute to improved practice among a wide range of practitioners. The study has investigated the part played by tacit…

Cooperative learning is a teaching technique that many teachers of all levels use in their classrooms. Putting students in structured groups so that they may work together has become a popular teaching strategy. Cooperative learning is student-centered teaching that requires the teacher to be facilitator and where students learn from each other.…

This study explored an instructor's and graduate students' reactions to their first on-line course. They initially felt high levels of stress. With increasing confidence, graduate students expressed their satisfaction. Most appreciated the reflection time that asynchronous dialogue provided, and learning relevant to real life that built on their…

In a most timely volume addressing many of the connections among current fiscal and employment crises to adult education, Learning for Economic Self-Sufficiency highlights the problems and challenges that low-literate adults encounter in various environments. Moreover, this book presents strategies for addressing the chronic illiteracy among…

Purpose: This paper aims to examine the nature of learning discovered by recent graduates participating in a symphony orchestra-initiated development program that is designed to nurture them through the transition to becoming professional orchestral musicians. Design/methodology/approach: Using a qualitative case study approach, the authors…

The Internet and Web technology development have opened up new ways for people to communicate, gain new information and increase their knowledge. One particular area of interest is that of using online resources to empower informal learners to increase their knowledge at their own time and space. One could look at an online resource as a public…

This paper provides an overview of adult learner participation in open and distance education by focusing participation needs based on selected socio-demographic variables such as age, years of working experience and monthly income. The related study involved a sample of 454 Open University Malaysia students from a number of learning centres…

This article shares a bevy of ways to make parent meetings successful--in a meaningful way. It presents some guidelines to keep in mind when planning parent meetings: (1) survey parents on what they want to learn about or discuss regarding childrearing or family life; (2) include parents in planning meetings; (3) find motivating ways to get…

The term "M.B.A." is globally recognized as referring to a Masters of Business Administration Program, a degree historically perceived as a graduate's ticket to employment opportunities, generous salaries and the business savvy that garners respect across industries. Recently, however, the value of an M.B.A. has come under fire from many…

This qualitative multi-case study explored the space where critical reflection and group development met within the online environment for the adult learner. Using critical reflection with adult learners through their responses to Stephen Brookfield's (1995) Critical Incident Questionnaire (CIQ) in the online environment precipitated instructional…

Mentoring has long been recognized as an effective strategy for retaining and supporting doctoral students in their programs of study. In this qualitative investigation, we conducted three focus groups of proteges, peer mentors, and faculty mentors to explore definitions, experiences, and expectations of mentoring. Results indicated that the three…

Chairing the annual Mountain Plains Adult Education Association Conference for 250 adult educators in Coeur d'Alene this past spring provided an opportunity for the author to offer a hands-on, conference planning experience to graduate students. Wanting to try something outside the typical classroom experience, the author organized a special…

The possible selves construct is presented as a useful and largely untapped perspective on adult learning. Special attention is given to the role of educational helping relationships in fostering positive possible selves among adult learners.