Examines the following considerations for using computers in adult literacy instruction: why use computers; stand-alone versus integrated learning systems; training and supporting teachers in the use of interactive technologies; and outcomes of computer-assisted instruction. (SK)

An Iowa survey of 351 adult basic education participants uncovered 10 motivations for participation, which were used to develop a cluster-analysis market segmentation. Another Iowa study found 4 basic causes for nonparticipation: low perception of need, perceived difficulty, dislike of school, and situational barriers. (SK)

The reading practices of four inmates were analyzed, showing very distinct approaches to reading. Standardized tests proved inadequate for assessing their learning needs. Other assessment formats such as miscue analysis and individualized instruction and materials were recommended. (SK)

Describes and critically analyzes adult literacy training efforts in Zambia from 1945 to 1986. Offers the integrated small-scale approach as a more beneficial and cost effective means of training. Suggests that a grass roots method which attacks illiteracy both across and within the community will lead to the most effective program. (KO)

Describes some of the daily obstacles faced by adult students, especially literacy students, in Britain: bureaucracy, visas, lack of familiarity with the culture, and anxiety about personal problems. Argues that adult educators must concern themselves with these obstacles in order to defend the rights of adults to education. (SK)

This bibliographic essay describes resources available in the ERIC database for teachers of adult beginning readers. Categories considered are theories, principles, and assessment tools; resources to assist with material selection and development; and practical teaching guidelines. (SK)

Describes a Canadian curriculum development project; analyzes underlying policy assumptions. Advocates involvement of prison educators and inmates in the process if curriculum is to meet the educational needs of inmates. (Author/LAM)

When labor, management, and literacy educators collaborate to develop a learner-centered literacy program, literacy educators must be willing to learn about the work and lives of industrial workers. The Academy at Eastern Michigan University is an alternative to traditional adult basic education that engages adults in collaborative learning.…

Focuses on the difficulty of moving literacy programs from the classroom to the workplace. Suggests that writing consultants face similar difficulties as they develop writing-across-the-curriculum programs and consult with public schools K-12. (JAD)

A survey of dropouts from a workplace General Educational Development class received 37 responses (33%). The highest rated deterrent to participation was time constraints; clique members were more affected by this factor than were isolates. Males had higher dropout rates and they considered the program a lower personal priority than did females.…

Case studies of workplace literacy programs provided by a technical college to a hospital consortium, by a technical college to a high-tech firm, and by an Opportunities Industrialization Center illustrate how vocational institutions can offer customized curricula based on actual workplace situations to diverse business clients. (SK)

Describes a case study that focused on the influence of the family's literacy interactions on all family members. Describes how, once the student learning to read (a 47-year-old father and grandfather) invited the family to take part in his learning, his reading improved, and the frequency and nature of family interactions changed. (SR)

Gatehouse Books in Manchester and Pecket Well College in West Yorkshire are publishers of adult basic education materials. They offer different and inspiring models for what can happen when adult literacy work merges with the activities and philosophy of the community writing and publishing movement. (JOW)

Reviews studies from 1979 to 1994 that examined adult reading achievement by comparing the efficacy of computer-assisted instruction with traditional methods. Finds that, despite considerable variability in design sophistication, 10 of the 21 studies found no statistically significant differences, 5 failed to indicate significance, 2 showed mixed…

Print material at an advanced reading level was revised for low literate individuals and given to a treatment group randomly chosen from 295 participants. Revisions had an insignificant effect on knowledge. It was recommended that materials for low-literate audiences be developed from scratch and not revised from existing material. (SK)