Promising practices in the adult English-as-a-Second-Language literacy field that were observed by researchers during site visits are described in this digest. These innovative programs provide a social context for literacy, allow learning through hands on experience, and use learner-generated materials. Some programs may use the native language as a bridge to English. Native language literacy programs have been used successfully in regions where non-literate learners share a common language. Most innovative programs put a primary focus on communication and a secondary focus on error correction. Many programs try to set aside time for discussion of language issues, including explanations of the patterns and structure of English. One promising approach for linking language awareness with meaning-based literacy is a process approach in which learners focus on meaning during the "creative stages" of writing (brainstorming ideas, class discussions, developing drafts) and on form during the revising and editing stages. Video applications also show great promise in literacy education. By providing a visual context for ideas, video communicates ideas independent of print. Although they differ in their specific approaches to language teaching and literacy development, innovative programs have one thing in common: Practitioner have found ways of helping learners to access literacy and use it in ways that are meaningful to them. (Adjunct ERIC Clearinghouse on Literacy Education) (LET)