This technical assistance guide contains information on adult learners and how they differ from learners who are children and the related program implications. The first section describes characteristics of adults that affect the attitudes adults bring to the classroom situation. These include bringing life experiences; having self-concept as a major concern; being affected by problems and stresses in their lives; being pragmatic about learning; being selective in what they learn; having definite ideas about authority figures; thinking they are supposed to be in control; and being concerned about psychological and physical comfort. The next section discusses eight principles to guide the teaching of adults in a literacy and employment training program: (1) meaningfulness; (2) appropriateness; (3) modeling; (4) practicing; (5) empowerment; (6) stimulation; (7) openness; and (8) facilitation. A sample lesson plan that incorporates these principles of learning is provided. The following section focuses attention on instructional strategies for lower-skilled learners. Activities are listed that build skills through discussion, new experiences, self-evaluation, and software. An evaluation checklist is provided to assess potential materials for use with adult literacy students. An annotated list of 14 resource materials and publications related to literacy instruction and job readiness workshops is appended. (YLB)