Although the origins of self-help groups can be traced back to early history, the self-help movement as we know it today began almost 50 years ago. Approximately 15 million Americans currently belong to about 500,000 different self-help groups. Adults in transition are likely to seek both formal and informal sources of help when faced with…

A unit on adult learning with an exercise based on the theories of Malcolm Knowles and Allen Tough is described. After students in the class see that they actually planned and directed much of their significant adult learning, they are eager to join in the process of modifying course objectives. (MLW)

This book describes the framework for an individualistic approach to learning--critical self-directed learning (SDL). A preface explains what is meant by "critical practice of SDL," describes educational streams that have fed into the concept, and situates the context within which the ideas about critical SDL developed. The order of the chapters…

This do-it-yourself booklet is designed to help those who want to facilitate a Learning Circle but who cannot attend a training workshop. The booklet explains what a learning circle is; the principles of a learning circle; the difference among learning circles, discussion groups, and structured classes; why the learning circle methodology should…