This study's aim was to understand the relationship of the component skills of reading, such as word recognition, vocabulary, and spelling, to large-scale measures of literacy, such as the 1992 National Adult Literacy Survey (NALS) (Kirsch, Jungleblut, Jenkins, & Kolstad, 1993) and the closely related International Adult Literacy Survey (IALS)…

Learning disabilities is the theme of the latest issue of "Focus on Basics," the World Education publication that brings together research, policy, and practice in adult basic education. Starting with an update on research on neurobiology and dyslexia, this issue also examines how the adult basic education system supports students with learning…

Describes Back Shed, a group of New Zealand heritage conservationists who center their work in lifelong learning. Situates their activities in the context of the learning city, a community development concept that mobilizes learning resources across many sectors. Discusses heritage conservation as a process of meaning making. (Contains 29…

Three New Zealand teacher educators of Samoan, Maori, and Caucasian descent reflect on equitable practice and the historical, social, and political factors that shape it. Themes of ethnic self-concept, cultural conflicts, and biculturalism/multiculturalism are addressed. (Contains 36 references.) (SK)

Responses from 29 of 86 New Zealand universities and polytechnics surveyed portrayed the state of bridging or access courses. The majority are over 10 years old; they vary greatly in terminology, content, length, and clientele. They are making a significant contribution to the participation of underrepresented groups, such as the Maori in higher…

Responses from 291 Chinese students and 12 expatriate English teachers indicated that 83% of teachers felt methods and content did not meet student expectations; 58.4% believed they combined Chinese and Western methods. Most students appreciated exposure to native speakers, but felt teachers did not understand their needs and lacked competence in…

Discusses the impact of the Treaty of Waitangi on the Maori people. Asks questions about whose reality is accepted as valid and whose voice is being heard. Addresses implications for adult and community education in New Zealand. (SK)

Points out that distance education has been around for a long time and that technology can change the nature of it. Addresses the impact of new technologies in a variety of adult education settings and asks whether there is value added by using technology. (JOW)

Institutions of higher education have embraced distance education but have not addressed concerns such as intellectual property rights and university-based career paths. Because of their limited commitment to the integration of technology into instruction, universities may be left behind. (JOW)

Describes how interactive television enabled older adults at 12 remote locations to learn about a housing option geared to their needs, ask questions, and interact with their peers across the state. (JOW)

Enumerates the benefits to industry of web-based training and provides a framework to clarify the goals, methods, interaction modes, and roles of four models. Includes examples of accessible Internet sites. (JOW)

Describes innovative technology projects that can help meet the expectations of adult literacy stakeholders. Stresses that the success of wider-scale projects requires attention to local planning, training, technical support, leadership, and resources. (JOW)

Online communities are structures that can meet the learning needs of members while simultaneously providing companionship, support, and recognition of the value of adults' experiences. SeniorNet is a nonprofit system of community-based learning centers and online services targeted to those over 55. (JOW)

Distance education has been offered as the solution to overcome barriers to access, but those who have been underserved may not be the ones accessing educational opportunities. Access has been increased for those already able to participate but not broadened to include new learners. (JOW)

Describes Public Issues Education, a term used in the Cooperative Education Service for a range of multiparty approaches for addressing public issues, from formal conflict resolution procedures to coalition-building and collaborative problem solving. (JOW)