The READ (Reading Evaluation--Adult Diagnosis) test, developed to provide the information needed by teachers of reading for adults or for older students who need more mature materials, is provided. The test is divided into three parts. Part I tests the student's acquaintance with words in general. This part is composed of four lists derived from…

Cites attempts to define and assess adult literacy, noting the trend toward real-life performance-task items which are criterion referenced. (MKM)

Examines three myths concerning illiteracy: (1) the Third World remains poor because of high illiteracy rates; (2) nations can be rated on a scale that compares relative literacy rates, and (3) what is needed is a reliable definition. Concludes the real issue is not literacy, but equity and justice. (CH)

Discusses one central characteristic of "women's way of knowing," some immediate implications for adult literacy instruction, and possible directions for further research. (JOW)

The low level of participation in adult basic education by older adults with minimal education invites consideration of the impact of illiteracy on older adults. Discussed are the role of reading among this population, the adequacy of commonly used definitions and measures of literacy for older adults, and recommendations for research and…

Assuming that many undereducated adults resisted schooling in early years and are now resisting adult basic education (ABE) programs for similar reasons, this study examines young adults in literary fiction who resisted schooling. Implications and recommendations for ABE research are discussed. (JOW)

Describes the three one-hour programs developed by television station KGO to promote adult literacy in the San Francisco area. (FL)

Explores the reasons why publishing for new literates in Asia poses problems. Clarifies the concepts and roles involved in the development, production, and dissemination of reading materials and points out the resources that can be enlisted in a literacy mobilization effort. (HTH)

This document summarizes an extensive study of policies and practices in adult literacy and adult basic education in a number of countries undertaken by Rosa McKenna and Lynne Fitzpatrick. The original study contains considerably greater detail and analyses issues on a country-by-country basis. The countries studied--Canada, the Republic of…

A British study examined whether people's literacy and numeracy skills get worse if they are out of paid employment. It was based on a sample of adults aged 37, who are part of the major cohort study, the National Child Development Study. Only those persons who left school at age 16 were included. Some of the findings were as follows: (1) when men…

This publication is the first of several planned reports for the Literacy in Libraries across America (LILAA) initiative, a four-year study that will explore the efforts of five leading public library-based literacy programs to improve learner persistence through a variety of programmatic, operational, and support service strategies. The five…

Emphasizing the need to increase literacy among older people in rural areas in Kenya, the author points out that these people have already demonstrated their ability to learn in other skill areas and suggests approaching literacy by way of vocational skills or help in developing small businesses. (SA)

Describes the establishment of adult education programs on "moonlit nights" by Cora Wilson Stewart, Superintendent of Rowan County Schools in Kentucky (1904-1912). Over 1,200 adults signed up the first year to take such courses as vocal music, reading, writing, spelling, arithmetic, and drills. From this activity the Illiteracy…

Describes British program in which adult illiterates are taught individually in the tutor's home. (SP)