Emerging Trends
Goal Setting
Four Lay-of-the-Land Papers on The Federal Role in Adult Literacy
Authors: L. McLendon, G. Murphy, J. Parker
Published: September 2010
Website: [click here]
Abstract: Prepared for the Commission’s first meeting in November 2006 by Lennox McLendon (Adult Education and Literacy Legislation and Its Effects on the Field, 18 pp.), Garrett Murphy (Adult Education & Literacy in the United States: Need for Services, What the Current Delivery System Looks Like, 14 pp.; and Federal Role in Adult Literacy, 13 pp.), and James Parker (Introduction to the Main Strands of Federal Adult Literacy Programming, 17 pp.).
Improving Adult Literacy Instruction: Options for Practice and Research
Author: Committee on Learning Sciences: Foundations and Applications to Adolescent and Adult Literacy; A M. Lesgold and M. Welch-Ross,
Editors: National Research Council
Published: 2011
Website: [click here]
Abstract: A recent survey reveals significant deficiency in reading and literacy among US adults. Resources focusing on improved instructional practices can help adult educators to address the above need. Improving Adult Literacy Instruction is one such resource geared towards improving literacy instruction in the United States through a more systemic approach to research, practice, and policy. The report recommends a program of research and innovation to validate, identify the boundaries of, and extend current knowledge to improve instruction for adults and adolescents outside school. The report is a valuable resource for curriculum developers, federal agencies such as the Department of Education, administrators, educators, and funding agencies.
Persistence: Helping Adult Education Students Reach Their Goals
Author: J. Comings
Published: 2007
Weblink: [click here]
Abstract: This resource focuses on persistence and the author provides a synopsis of research, studies, findings, and implications for national, state, and local adult education practitioners. The author defines persistence and discusses why this issue is critical for the field. In the resource, persistence is defined as “a continuous learning process that lasts until an adult student meets his or her educational goals.” Several studies are highlighted in the resource that examines the intensity and duration of instruction, participation, retention, and persistence.
Preparing Students for College-level Math
Author: P. Meader
Published: 2006
Website: [click here]
Abstract:The article describes a pilot ABE-to-college transition program in Portland, Maine in 2003, funded by the Nellie Mae Education Foundation. The author shares many strategies she used in her Algebra courses. She has links to additional information on various topics and she includes samples of some of her teaching materials.
Skills to Live By: Participant Reflections on the Value of their Sectoral Training Experience
Author: M. Conway and A. Blair
Published: 2006
Website: [click here]
Abstract: This resource describes the third phase of a sectoral approach (targeting high priority industry clusters and related jobs) to education and training for low income and low-skilled individuals, especially to identify the successes and challenges they have faced participating and remaining in the labor market four years after training. One significant theme was that the participants had specific goals for work and employment and understood how the program would help them meet those goals.
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Strategies For Success In Career Development: The Career Coach Curriculum Guide
Author: C. Van Slyke & K. Lamb
Published: 2008
Weblink: [click here]
Abstract: This thorough, concise, and well-organized career development curriculum is appropriate for instructors and other service providers who work with mid- to higher-level adult learners in the process of choosing a career, changing a career, or exploring education options that match their goals. The range of activities helps learners make smart decisions early on in training or education. The curriculum content presents a logical sequence of topics: 1) Understanding the importance of education to career development; 2) Using personal values, interests, skills and lifestyle needs to evaluate potential career choices; 3) Exploring potential careers to find a good fit; 4) Setting educational goals; 5) Researching and evaluating different schools or training programs; 6) Making a customized career plan; 7) Learning about financial aid; 8) Managing time; and 9) Making short- and long-term plans. The guide provides direction to adapt the curriculum into 16- 8- or 4-class programs.
Teaching Learners What Reading Is All About
Author: NCSALL
Published: 2005
Weblink: [click here]
Abstract:This resource introduces adult education practitioners to the components of reading that are part of making more fluent readers. It provides details, including objectives, audience, time, agendas, session preparation, and resources for 13 lessons designed to help learners understand the research-based components of reading. This resource provides a rather simplistic but useful tool for seminar leaders or teacher development teachers/leaders. It's most useful features are the concrete ideas for teachers to use with their students, especially the goal setting piece.
To Ensure America’s Future: Building a National Opportunity System for Adults. Strengthening Links Between Adult Education and Community Colleges
Authors: Council for Advancement of Adult Literacy
Published: February 2005
Website: [click here]
Abstract: The final report of a major two-year task force study of links between adult education and literacy and the community colleges. Based on the study findings, the report concludes that the adult education and literacy system and community colleges will have to find new ways to work together” to bring about the National Opportunity System envisioned in the paper, a system needed for the functioning of our democracy, for the U.S. to remain globally competitive, and to ensure essential workforce development. The report gives numerous recommendations to federal and state government, community colleges, and the adult education community.
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