English Language Civics Education

Selected Resources & News From The Field

The Connect for Kids Weekly is an electronic newsletter of Connect for Kids, a resource for adults who want to build better communities for kids and families. The publisher works to realize the social benefits made possible by the public interest use of communications. Sign up free at http://www.connectforkids.org/.

e*literacy is the monthly electronic newsletter from the National Institute for Literacy (NIFL). It is available online at: http://www.nifl.gov/nifl/eliteracy/01_12_01.html. It contains the latest news from NIFL, including the current month's calendar, legislative updates, Literacy in the News, plus more. Don't miss an issue. It's free.

Literacy Update covers issues in adult education and literacy. It is published eight times a year. You may download the current issue at the Literacy Assistance Center's Web site at http://www.lacnyc.org/publications/update.htm.

Focus on Basics is published by the National Center for the Study of Adult Learning and Literacy (NCSALL). It is available online at http://www.ncsall.net/index.php?id=31. Or if you prefer you may obtain a free copy from the Texas Adult Literacy Clearinghouse by calling 800-441-7323.

News From the Field

The Adult Education Credential Project has been funded since 1998 to develop a standardized credentialing process for the state of Texas. The proposed credential model requires accrual of 125 professional development points across six core content areas: Principles of Adult Learning; Teaching and Learning; Diverse Learning Styles; Abilities and Cultures; Integrating Technology; and Accountability. Other aspects of the model include specialization opportunities, field participation, an instructional observation, and written reflection reports. A successful pilot of the model was conducted during FY 2000-2001 with 10 practitioners and/or administrators from various regions of the state. A copy of the proposed credential model is available for download from the Credential Project Web site http://cie.ci.swt.edu/credential.

A larger field test is being conducted with approximately 175 adult education instructors. The field test participants are using the credential to plan their professional development and provide feedback regarding their experience. Practitioners are engaging in professional development activities such as online courses, study groups and peer mentoring. If you would like more information or would like to participate in the Credential field test, contact Tamara Thornton Clunis with the Credential Project, Southwest Texas State University 877-798-2733.