Data from 53 programs training literacy tutors in small group/collaborative methods showed that the model corroborated benefits of the approach for adults. Findings suggested that tutors, trainers, and learners need time to develop group process skills. Programs lacking a volunteer management system had difficulties supporting tutors and learners.…

Interviews 16 volunteer adult literacy tutors, finding that many of them do not implement strategies and practices currently recognized as most effective, but tend to implement strategies to which they themselves were exposed as learners, possibly leading to feelings of frustration and defeat for their clients. (SR)

Followup of 1,736 adult basic education (ABE) participants released from prison showed that (1) ABE completers had the lowest recidivism rates; (2) offenders at greater risk of recidivism benefited most from completion; and (3) ABE participation helped in postrelease job search and gave a sense of control. (SK)

In developmental reading classes, 33 adults were taught using diagnostic-prescriptive methods and 38 controls with a traditional programmed approach. Pre/posttest results from the Stanford Diagnostic Reading Test showed that experimentals had significantly higher inferential and total comprehension scores. Word recognition and comprehension…

Cost effectiveness analysis in terms of personnel, facilities, equipment, materials, and overhead was made of two adult basic reading programs: Technology for Literacy Center's tutor-based program and Principle of the Alphabet Literacy System (PALS), computer-assisted instruction. Costs per unit of gain in reading skills clearly favored the PALS…

Suggests that a combination of technologies is needed to meet the needs of adult basic education students. Describes the attributes of video-based, computer-based, and interactive technologies that lend themselves to the individuation necessary. (SK)

A group of 19 inmates took 3 spelling tests: the first following study of a blackboard word list, the second following students' copying of words from the blackboard, and the third following definitions of the words. A recall test showed that inclusion of meanings enhanced retention of vocabulary and spelling. (SK)

The motivation/immersion model of literacy centers on the individual and isolates literacy from context. A community development approach regards literacy as a function of social structure; based on this model, literacy education programs are respectful of the culture and idiom of the community. (SK)

Recent reports examining the federal Adult Education for the Homeless and Job Opportunities and Basic Skills programs conclude that adult education must consider the purposes for which participants will use basic skills and the barriers they face. A comprehensive human resource development system would include case management, use of formerly…

An Indiana survey of 113 of 248 adult basic educators, 113 of 117 trainers, and 23 of 29 continuing educators identified ethical dilemmas they face. Fifty-two percent believed a code of ethics should be created and enforced by professional associations, covering broad issues. Those who had experience with codes were positive about them. (SK)

The adult basic education program of the University of Natal (South Africa), in conjunction with a rural development agency, is intended to train literacy teachers and develop English-as-a-Second-Language teaching materials. One implication was that what may have worked at the village level needs reconceptualization for large-scale adaptation. (SK)

The heart of literacy is the construction of meaning, which is rooted in experience, culture, and language. Respect for cultural and linguistic backgrounds must be incorporated into teacher-learner relationships. This is an essential component of effective literacy programs. (SK)

Examines the reading habits of students in Adult Basic Education and High School Equivalency programs as a whole and by variables of race, gender, age, and reading level. Finds that, as a group, they were by no means nonreaders, though their time spent reading is less than the general population. (RS)

Describes, in a case study, how a functionally illiterate adult coped with the disabling effects of not being able to read and how, once he was involved in an educational therapy program, his attitude toward reading, his self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, coping strategies, and actual progress in reading were influenced by the treatment.…

A participatory English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) curriculum development project in South Africa, "Use, Speak and Write English" (USWE), is described. USWE's attempt to translate its curriculum framework into workable materials is reported. Suggestions for handling the challenges facing adult basic education are suggested. (Contains 40…