The Adult Literacy and Evaluation Research Team (also known as Project ALERT) was a project conducted by the Detroit Literacy Coalition (DLC) at Wayne State University in 1993-1994 to develop and pilot a user-friendly program model for evaluating literacy operations of community-based organizations throughout Michigan under the provisions of Section 353 of the Adult Education Act. First, background information regarding the theory of adult learning and African American attitudes toward adult learning was obtained through a literature review. Next, a three-phase questionnaire process that focused on formative outcomes was conducted to arrive at the final evaluation instrument, which was pretested and determined to be impartial, multiculturally sensitive, cost efficient, user friendly, and nonthreatening. The evaluation instrument is slated to undergo extensive testing in volunteer literacy programs throughout Michigan, including in programs in rural and culturally diverse locations. (Eighteen figures and 26 references are included. Nine appendixes constituting approximately 60% of this document contain the following: glossary; adult literacy program instruments; model indicators; DLC policy statement, overview, board of directors, mission profile, and services and primary goals; profile of literacy providers contacted; and Project ALERT timelines.) (MN)