The author discusses current uses of computers in adult basic skills instruction. Compares three primary systems available for purchase in adult literacy instruction: (1) Programmed Logic for Automatic Teaching Operations (PLATO), (2) Computer Curriculum Corporation (CCC), and (3) Principle of the Alphabet Literacy System (PALS). Presents…

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…

Describes a computer program for arithmetic in which the use of the operationalized cognitive apprenticeship methods was studied together with effects of modelling and coaching on student performance. Results showed that adult basic education students make little use of optional materials in a computer program. (Author/JKP)

Mexican immigrants working at a wholesale nursery were involved in developing user instructions for a computer-based instruction system. Sixty-one Latinos with 0 to 16 years of education completed user instructions delivered on the computer, and all but 3 completed training content about the nursery. Based on objective criteria, program use was…

This document chronicles some of the innovative uses of technology in the adult basic education and literacy field and the creative and cooperative efforts of local service providers to increase the instructional resources for learners. In 1-2 page profiles, it provides information about how the 50 states and the District of Columbia are using…

The effectiveness of using computer courseware developed for adults reading below the fourth-grade level was investigated with inmates at Rockview State Correctional Institution. Data were collected both to establish multiple baseline data and to permit experimental group comparison with a control group. The multiple baselines portion of the study…

This document contains guidelines and support materials to assist potential purchasers of computer-based adult literacy (CBAL) systems as they consider which specific system to purchase. Included in the document are the following: guidelines and evaluation criteria (written in question form) pertaining to seven areas affecting the purchasing…

The 7000l Training and Employment Institute offers self-paced instruction through the use of computers and audiovisual materials to young people to improve opportunities for success in the work force. In 1988, four sites were equipped with Apple stand-alone software in an integrated learning system that included courses in reading and math, test…

A series of sequentially replicated case studies examined the use of information technologies in the context of existing adult literacy programs. Literacy programs offered by the following institutions were studied: Watts Adult Learning Center (Los Angeles, California); Creative Academic Achievement Pro-Success Learning Center (McAllen, Texas);…

This issue of a quarterly newsletter on lifelong learning focuses on the theme of the arts and humanities in adult literacy education. The following articles are included: (1) "In Defense of a Practical Education" (Earl Shorris); (2) "From the Program Director" (Elizabeth Bryant McCrary); (3) "Vermont Council on the…

These proceedings contain the summaries of 60 presentations. Among those included are: "Desk Top Publishing & Experiential Literacy Material" (Arnold); "A Description of the U.S. Experience in Providing Vocational Skills to Individuals with Low Literacy Skills" (Barbee); "Audio-Disk Technology" (Bixler, MacClay); "Technology for Teachers: A Group…

This book, which was developed during a Canadian project researching adult learning styles and acquisition of literacy skills, is intended to serve as a sourcebook of facts, ideas, and resources for literacy instructors working with low-functioning or illiterate adults. The introduction includes the following topics: using learning styles, the…

This second issue of an annotated listing of educational software suitable for use with adult basic education (ABE) students was compiled through reviews of software by ABE teachers and their students for its effectiveness and appropriateness to adult literacy instruction. The featured programs include drill and practice, simulations, educational…

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 conference proceedings of the Australian Council for Adult Literacy contains the following papers: "'But I'm Not a Therapist'--The Challenge of Creating Effective Literacy Learning for Survivors of Trauma" (Horsman); "Future Studies, Postmodernism, and Adult Literacy" (Cross); "Collaboration and Compliance in the…