There is a strong and growing argument for higher educational attainment in the United States. The jobs that are expected to support the economy in the coming years will depend on a skilled workforce that is able to learn and adapt quickly to new challenges. However, demographic patterns demonstrate that relying on the traditional K-16 pipeline to…

family literacy, and workplace sites) for a year or more to examine their experiences of learning and change. Each program was aimed at enhancing participants? English language fluency, content knowledge, and effectiveness as students, parents, and/or workers. The purpose of this study was to better understand how these adults experienced learning…

This Study Circle guide was created by the National Center for the Study of Adult Learning and Literacy (NCSALL) as part of the Practitioner Dissemination and Research Network (PDRN). The guide is part of NCSALL's effort to help connect research and practice in the field of adult basic education and adult literacy. The purpose of the study circle…

This issue focuses on workplace education and includes the following articles: "After the Grant Is Over" (Connie Nelson); "Around to Stay" (Shirley Penn and Mary Zorn); "A Conversation with FOB: What Benefits Does Workplace Ed Offer the Provider?"; "Reading Work" (Tracy Defoe and Sue Folinsbee); "Much More than ABE" (Don Block and Lori…

Replicating earlier studies, 66 English as a second language speech students at a community college undertook content-based second language learning in psychology, sociology, and history. End-of-semester assessments showed they had improved second-language confidence and learned academic subject matter; most agreed sheltered courses were a useful…

This literature review explores competing views of the relationship between adult literacy and U.S. economic difficulties. Trends in public policy, legislation, labor forecasting, and workplace training from the 1960s to the present are reviewed. Consequences of the perceived gap between workers' skills and national economic needs are discussed.…

A survey received 143 responses (35%) from adult education/English as a second language directors; 16 were interviewed. Only 12% rarely read research; 84% found it interesting and 85% believed it relevant to practice; 66% had changed practice due to research-based information. Educational level had no significant influence, but training or…

The interaction in successful online learning depends on three elements: (1) learners must understand the importance of interaction in achieving learning outcomes; (2) moderators must take responsibility for supporting interaction; and (3) learners must bring willingness and resources to the process. (SK)

Describes the development of the National Archive of Lifelong Learning in Britain, an attempt to create an online catalog for a national network of collections on lifelong learning and adult education. (SK)

An introductory course for college students with disabilities, The Learning Journey, provides guidance on support and resources available, raises self-confidence, and demystifies the university. The course seeks to help students become independent learners in the mainstream. (SK)

Includes "Commentary" (Alan Tuckett); "Lifelong Learning" (Malcolm Wicks); "An Opposition View" (Tim Boswell); "Opening up the Learning Market" (Jacqui Henderson); "Ringing in the Changes" (Chris Hughes); and "More Reasons to Be Cheerful, More Causes for Concern" (Alastair Thomson). (SK)

An adult education program used drama to reach women not actively seeking health education. Audience discussions revealed key themes for improvement: the role of primary health care professionals and the need for confidence building to proceed other program activities. (SK)

Sketches the history of women's education in Britain's Workers Educational Association, leading to the establishment of the Women's Education Committee in 1993. Outlines questions for the future of working women in labor education. (SK)

A survey of British providers of women's education following legislation requiring accreditation found that, despite advantages of credit programs, the change caused problems for the most disadvantaged women. Credits and outcomes-based assessment deter some participants, curriculum design and delivery are more prescribed, and flexibility is…

Many British unions are failing to attract women members. The General Federal of Trade Unions has begun a women's studies program, offering communication and confidence building, women's history, and other courses that are helping women become involved in union l leadership and decision making. (SK)