This article is written by two researchers and a teacher involved with the development and implementation of a web-based intelligent tutoring system for adults reading at elementary levels. A description of the tool is provided, followed by some of the challenges faced in designing, developing, and using the tool in adult literacy classrooms.

Latecomers to science are students who take non-traditional routes into postsecondary science because they are initially missing prerequisites. Latecomers have a lower rate of persistence than traditional science students. This critical discourse analysis of an online forum thread uses Gee's toolkit to explore how latecomers, who have histories of…

We ask the reader to consider a proposal for cooperative renewal in the evaluation of a course (OurU) offered in partnership between a university and community-based adult learning center. This proposal's aim is to enhance adult learners' ability to evaluate their learning experiences, with the goal of adopting more learner-directed content into…

The study expands reported here Extension education's knowledge regarding characteristics of potential change agents. Graduate students learning to become agricultural Extension educators were studied to determine their definition of a change agent. Participants' cognitive styles were assessed using Kirton's Adaptation-Innovation Inventory to…

This article offers practical guidance for educators as they prepare specialists to enhance the lives and communities of older persons through the strategic use of visual media in age-related courses. Advantages and disadvantages of this learning innovation are provided as well as seven approaches for enriching instruction. Resources are included…

Presents a three-dimensional model for program development, based upon (1) Apps' identification of adult educators' philosophies (acquiring content, problem solving, self-actualization), (2) Houle's categories of adult learners (goal oriented, activity oriented, learning oriented), and Lawshe's dimensions of institutional programing (time-place,…

Teachers must understand the physiological and psychological changes that occur in adulthood as a normal part of aging and recognize the implications that these changes have for the teaching-learning process in order to be sensitive to the unique needs and characteristics of adults over 50 as learners. (CT)

The willingness of continuing educators to meet the challenge of studying the computer and using it to enhance the learning process will influence whether this generation of educators takes a step forward toward a respectable profession or a step backward toward a poorly paid skill. (Author)

Describes special pre-academic course for ESL Students at Alberta Vocational Center designed to develop English skills to enable students to compete on equal basis with Canadians in academic or vocational programs. (BK)

Discusses the pros and cons of using copying as a means for English-as-a-Second-Language students to improve their handwriting skills. The use of chalkboards, plastic slates, and newsprint with felt markers is described. (LB)

A 10-week plan was developed to help disadvantaged adults and college students realize that they can affect their environments if they learn the techniques of setting short-term goals to obtain long-term goals. According to the plan, the student selects a goal (not necessarily an educational goal) that can be reasonably accomplished in 10 weeks.…

Describes some characteristics of the adult learner, including factors that can affect the adult's ability to learn language. Discusses teacher- and learner-centered approaches and "adult" learning environments. (EKN)

Presents methods for conducting second language conversation classes for adult learners which develop both fluency and accuracy. Describes two types of functions such as a monologue that each student will deliver and forms for asking for more information. (BK)

Methods for teaching non-English speaking adults include using adult-oriented methods, introducing vocabulary in context, using graphic arts, encouraging discussion, using comparison and analogy, providing a relaxed atmosphere, letting students talk about themselves, using complete sentences, being a good role model, and letting students help each…

This article is set in the broad context of debates about the nature of professionalism, in particular the professionalism of teachers in the post-compulsory sector. The focus is on teachers of vocational subjects in further education (FE) in England and on their perceptions of their role and work in preparing their learners for employment. In the…