At a time when governments face the challenges of maintaining competitiveness in a global economy, it is necessary to have high-quality comparative information regarding the fundamental skills of the adult population. Such information can help governments to evaluate policies and design more effective interventions. This article describes a…

This report summarizes 2008-2009 data from several Austin Independent School District efforts to promote parent and community involvement.

It is no secret that America is at risk of losing its place as a world leader in education. Some 88 million adults in America need help with their English as a Second Language (ESL) and basic skills, yet the nation is currently providing services to only 3 million people. The Commission on Adult Literacy calls for bold change at the state and…

Background and Context: The context for this study is the American legislative landscape covering the past 35 years, which witnessed a shift in political philosophies concerning the role of government in ensuring the social welfare of its citizens--from a focus on a "safety net" to a focus on "individual responsibility." We frame these contrasting…

Indicates the likelihood that the initial period of the Industrial Revolution was one of deteriorating educational standards in most areas, especially in those that were seats of displaced domestic textile industries. (Author)

An analysis of Freire's methods of literacy training, focusing on the presentation and discussion of a series of 10 thematic pictures designed to evoke a critical analysis of reality and culture, the selection of generative words for learning, and a review of his basic pedagogic assumptions. (EH)

The United Kingdom has established an Adult Literacy Resource Agency and a three-year television and radio adult literacy project. Public libraries are involved in these projects and provide special services for adult student-readers. (Author/KP)

Consists of six articles reporting on workshops and panel discussions of literacy from a Hispanic perspective. The discussions took place at a forum on "Literacy: The First Chapter of the American Dream." (CH)

Australian adult literacy programs feature the use of volunteer tutors, emphasis on personal growth, and fostering of self-esteem. (SK)

Reviews recent literature about literacy and the aged and maintains there is a need for empirical research into the perceptions of reading and writing needs and interests of the elderly themselves. The effects of societal expectations of the elderly on their reading/writing behavior and interests should also be examined. (JAC)

The Education for All (EFA) goal of increasing adult literacy by 50 percent reflects two simple facts: first, primary school attendance has positive effects, including better family health and increased productivity; and second, when parents learn to read, more children go to school. So why haven't more countries and donors supported adult…

This collection of Spanish language papers on adult literacy education includes the following: "Sistematizacion: Un Instrumento Pedagogico en los Proyectos de Desarrollo Sustenable" [Systematization: A Pedagogic Instrument in Projects of Sustainable Development] (Joao Francisco de Souza); "Estudio Cualitativo de la Investigacion…

Gives a background on the various adult/non-formal education programs drawn up since Indian independence, and discusses the needs, aspirations, and problems supported by facts and figures. (Editor)

Reviews literacy campaigns, continuing education, and other programs for adults in China, Vietnam, and the U.S.S.R. (SK)