A review of literature on the learning processes and potential of adult students of English as a Second Language, not literate in their native language, looks at research in the following areas: (1) the differences between children and adults in language learning; (2) the effects of previous formal education on second language learning; (3) the effects of literacy on cognition; (4) the transfer of skills within and across languages; (5) the effectiveness of different types of instructional materials or approaches for literate as compared with non-literate individuals; (6) simplification and selection of texts; (7) meaning- versus form-centered instructional approaches; and (8) competency-based curricula. Research is recommended that focuses specifically on the education of illiterate adults. (MSE) (Adjunct ERIC Clearinghouse on Literacy Education)