Identifies the immensity of the illiteracy problem, enumerates who are the functional illiterates, and explains what is being done by voluntary organizations such as Literacy Volunteers of America to eradicate it. Literacy Volunteers of New York City, the problem of financial support, and national awareness and progress are highlighted. (EJS)

Discussion of program established in 1977 by the Queens Borough Public Library and Literacy Volunteers of New York to combat the problem of adult illiteracy notes recruitment, training and retention of tutors, student intake procedure, cooperation with community organizations, special programs (math, writing, adult basic education), and program…

Discusses three types of low ability students--the beginner, the low-ability student at other levels, and the static student. Suggests methods of helping the low ability student in the ESL classroom. (EKN)

This paper considers a number of variables in examining the roles of both formal and nonformal education in the process of acculturation among the adult Mayan Indians of Guatemala. (Author/EB)

An inquiry into the state of adult education in Latin America revealed great interest and a wide variety of programs seeking to reduce adult illiteracy. Significant problems in developing and implementing programs are the linguistic pluralism of the countries involved, and a variety of educational philosophies. (MSE)

The author discusses factors inhibiting adult literacy in India, stating that institutional schooling has provided education for only a small percentage of the population. As an adult literacy curriculum depends on community needs, he suggests a core or minimum curriculum for adult basic education in the community. (MF)

Presents suggestions for collaboration between librarians and day care providers, such as resource sharing, adult literacy referrals, publications, and scheduled communication to help families engage in literacy activities. Lists 25 ideas for family literacy-building, such as family bookmaking, art projects, and family book bingo. (JKP)

Examines the current status of adult literacy programs in rural areas. Discusses the goals of rural adult literacy programs and the types of programs reported to be effective. Discusses the needs of adult illiterates in rural areas and the conditions that support--or limit--the widespread influence of effective programs. (MG)

Proposes priorities for adult literacy work: recognize existing skills and experiences; understand the demands of a changing job market; go beyond opportunistic pragmatism of demographic change as a reason to ensure access for mature students; challenge the existing educational system; and make sure that literacy students can describe who they are…

A study compared results of an informal test of word recognition and a qualitative assessment of word knowledge with 32 adult basic education students. Results showed that adult spelling development is similar to that in children. The spelling-by-stage assessment instrument may be a useful substitute for word recognition tests. (SK)

Argues that the computer has many advantages over traditional technologies in learning, thinking, and problem solving. Argues that if reading and writing are taught as thinking processes akin to problem solving, then skills and experiences acquired on the computer should transfer well, with guidance, to print literacy. (RS)

Using interviews provides insights into the lives of two groups of low-literate adults, in order to better understand the high attrition rate in adult literacy programs. Identifies ideology, conviction, and structural/environmental support as significant factors which are determiners of continued participation in such programs. Clarity in program…

The authors review current practices in writing instruction in adult literacy classes. They observe that students spend little time writing. Innovative teaching activities are mentioned. They discuss goals of writing instruction and how to adapt present practices to meet the writing requirements of the General Educational Development Test. (CH)

Describes a workplace literacy program that uses both workplace and participant-generated materials, including job descriptions, job procedures, training materials, newsletters, booklets, and memos. Shows how literacy development went beyond the survival stage to levels of empowerment and human development. (SR)

A study of the management of literacy needs of rehabilitation clients moving from the health sector back into the community is reported. Focusing on people with physical impairments or brain damage, the study examined what health professionals know about adult literacy programs, identification and management of literacy needs, and perception of…