The authors examined the implementation of assistive technology in a community literacy centre's writing program for adult learners. Quantitative and qualitative analyses indicated that (a) software and instructional methods for writing must be selected according to the needs of and in conjunction with adult learners, (b) learners needed…

In 1997 the British Columbia Open University (BCOU) adopted a virtualization strategy based primarily on twinning off-line independent study distance education courses (textbook-based with study guide and telephone and e-mail tutor support) with alternate online versions (textbook-based with integrated conferencing and communications provided…

This article is a report on research conducted to support the development of a multilingual literacy learning software programme for adult learners in rural Limpopo Province, South Africa. The topic of inquiry for the research was literacy learning in a multilingual environment, with special attention paid to attitudinal and metacognitive aspects.…

An Institute for State and University Level Adult Basic Education Personnel was held to provide insight into the philosophy, potentials, problems, and techniques of programmed and computer assisted instruction as they relate to adult basic education programs. Speeches given at the institute are reproduced in this publication. The titles and…

Adult Basic Education (ABE) students with either no computer assisted education instruction (CAI) experience (NE group), and with a fifteen-minute introduction to CAI (CAI group) were given a 14-item questionnaire to determine their attitude toward CAI. Agreement or disagreement was elicited for statements comparing CAI to the teacher or other…

Suggests that a combination of technologies is needed to meet the needs of adult basic education students. Describes the attributes of video-based, computer-based, and interactive technologies that lend themselves to the individuation necessary. (SK)

Describes an Australian national study of technologies used for adult literacy: traditional technologies (print, radio, television, audio and videotape, teleconferencing, and computers) and new generation technologies (laser discs, CD-ROM, videodiscs, and hypermedia). (SK)

These participant materials are from a videoconference that addressed the needs of adult literacy program administrators, instructors, and tutors beginning or continuing the technology implementation process. Section I contains the videoconference materials: agenda; videoconference evaluation form; biographical and program information; executive…

Designed to help literacy providers establish a plan for the use of technology within their organization, this practical guide and workbook consists of hands-on worksheets. It offers points to reflect on and consider when assistance is needed to create a technology plan within an adult literacy setting. The workbook focuses on computer-based…

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…

The Computer Assisted Basic Skills project was conducted during the 1991-92 academic year in the Grand Rapids Public Schools in Michigan to develop a model that would provide adult educators with a framework for developing and/or redesigning a computer-assisted instructional (CAI) program for basic skills instruction. Existing models and model…

The major goal of the Developmental and Demonstration Project in Adult Basic Education at North Carolina State University is to identify, develop, and evaluate innovative materials and instructional systems that will accelerate and enhance the learning process in undereducated adults through the use of modern educational technology and media.…

Many adult basic education and literacy programs are reaping the benefits of educational technology for their students, instructors, and administrators. In this context, most often the term refers to computer-assisted instruction that supplements regular classroom instruction. In St. Paul, Minnesota, the Technology for Literacy Center uses…

Effective technology empowers learners and helps them assume responsibility for their own learning. Characteristics of effective instructional technology should guide the development of computer software and other types of technology. Software should provide for interaction since adults learn through active engagement. Feedback should be…

The Technology for Literacy Project was a three-year experimental project to explore the use of computers and other forms of technology with adults lacking basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. The project, which concentrated on St. Paul, Minnesota, and its surrounding counties, had four components: direct service, incentive grants,…