The contents of this book is based upon knowledge derived from university institutes for teacher training in adult basic education, independent and collaborative research, and information obtained from the field of literacy education. In the first three chapters, the author presents a concise summary of the history of literacy education. Specific procedures and practices for diagnosing learning abilities, disabilities, and skills are discussed in Chapter 4. Chapters 5 through 8, which deal with methods, materials, and teaching techniques, will provide the basic knowledge required to present the most effective materials to students at the most appropriate time. Chapter 9 is concerned with preparation of literacy materials and Chapter 19, with the teaching of English to non-English speaking adults. Field-tested practices and principles comprise Chapter 11, while the final chapter discusses teacher training and describes a variety of ways by which a teacher can develop his competence. (nl)