The many advantages claimed for using the computer in adult literacy instruction--privacy, immediate feedback, individualization, control, and flexibility--have also been observed in the practice of dedicated teachers, without the help of computers. Fortunately, many scholars still emphasize the need for teacher sensitivity and teacher-student…

Reflects on the use of microcomputers in the schools, shares personal experiences with computers, and outlines a project to develop instructional software designed to promote the development of basic reading and writing abilities among illiterate adolescents and adults. (FL)

Presents an overview of educational technology studies conducted by the U.S. Congressional Office of Technology Assessment, including a 1988 study of computers in schools; a 1989 study on distance learning; a 1991 study of testing and assessment; and a recent report on the ramifications for adult literacy. (Contains eight references.) (LRW)

This article gives a brief overview of issues in adult literacy; an assessment of workplace literacy; and components, concepts, and steps of the NASA Adult Literacy Evaluator project. The Adult Literacy Evaluator project applies NASA's technical experience to the problem of adult literacy and workplace literacy by finding ways to use interactive…

An estimated 25 million American workers will need to upgrade their skills during the 1990s if the U.S. economy is to stay competitive. The contribution of computers and electronic technology to productivity in education still remains to be proved. In the 1990s, technology for adult basic skills training will mean interactivity, multimedia, and…

This book surveys currently available software for English language learners and identifies future directions in the development of such software that are likely to prove fruitful. Discussed first are ways in which computers add to the learning experience. Stand-alone programs are compared with authoring systems, and "purpose-made" and…

The feasibility of using technology as an instructional strategy to help adult students make the transition from volunteer literacy programs to adult basic education classes was assessed. The following benefits of technology as an instructional strategy were examined: privacy, individualization, achievement gains, cost-effectiveness, control of…

This paper looks at computer technology's current and potential role in developing literacy in hearing impaired (HI) adults. First, the paper considers findings of adult literacy research including the national impact of illiteracy, functional literacy, communication and thinking skills, the whole language approach, the process approach to…

This comprehensive review of the international research literature looks at the research evidence on the effective teaching of literacy, numeracy and second language skills to adults. It contains an extensive discussion of the literature and full references. The purpose of this literature review is to provide a critical evaluation of the available…

While minority youth and adults have traditionally experienced high rates of unemployment, recent demographic, educational, and technological changes have all combined to cause a sharp increase in the numbers of unemployed and displaced minority group workers. A review of past employment and training programs such as the Comprehensive Employment…

This monograph examines benefits, challenges, and methods of expanding access to adult literacy with online distance education (ODE). The following are among the topics discussed: (1) reasons for considering ODE (new technologies and delivery systems in education; ODE in higher education, business training, and adult basic education; state-level…