Adults' development of literacy and numeracy skills that can enable them to navigate the demands of contemporary life and be prepared for the future is central to their economic, social, and personal well-being and the functioning of society. This article discusses the role of literacy and numeracy in adult learning and education, beginning with…

This study utilizes the personal critical narrative of myself, a woman from the Chaoshan region in China, as the primary data source to explore the impact of traditional gender roles and patriarchal values on women's personal growth transformation through a feminist lens. Integrating feminist and transformative learning theory, it encompasses my…

This chapter discusses the influence of cultural identity and social conditions on the transition to adulthood in a stratified, multicultural context.

In recent years coaching has become an increasingly popular intervention used in both personal and professional development spheres. This chapter draws on industry research from scholars as well as professional organizations to map the history, definitions, and trends of executive and organizational coaching to provide clarity on a complex and…

This chapter describes developmental needs of emerging young adults and how they are often met, or not met, in faith communities. The author offers recommendations for creating better connections with today's emerging young adults.

There is both gain and loss in early male formation: men gain a certain clarity, power, and even vision in their separateness, yet may pay the cost in mutuality, responsiveness, and connectedness. Mentors can help men heal their connectivity deficit while retaining the strengths of their distinctiveness by reminding them that they have within…

Because wisdom is such a complex and multidimensional construct, it is difficult to study, much less to define. Based on the author's understanding, her definition of wisdom is as follows: "Wisdom is about human flourishing; it is having sufficient awareness in various situations and contexts to act in ways that enhance our common humanity." This…

Since the military became an all-voluntary force (AVF), men and women have chosen to serve as a career, viewing it as a way to accomplish their life goals. Whether these goals include advancing in rank or transitioning into civilian life, service members find themselves needing additional training and/or education while serving. Although the…

In this article, the author states his belief that community based learning among adults can be a powerful force for encouraging personal development and for strengthening democracy in this multicultural, globally interdependent, battered world. To do so, however, it needs to pervade all the curricula, degree programs, learning contracts, and…

The online environment represents one of the fastest growing contexts for adult learning. The first online programs resembled electronic versions of old correspondence study programs. As problems of low motivation, alienation, dissatisfaction, and attrition within these programs mounted, practitioners and scholars recommended more emphasis on…

Meeting the learning needs of older adults in rural areas is a critical and growing concern for adult and continuing education. This chapter addresses learning in a rural context for older adults by examining several constructs. These include the definitions of "rural," the issues of the learners' ages, and the various structures and…

Service learning is one of the most pervasive education innovations of the past generation and has demonstrated much success in connecting schooling with community service. Service learning is designed to be integrated into, and enhance, the academic curriculum. It is believed, and there is growing evidence to show, that participation in service…

This chapter explores how incorporating the possible selves construct within a supportive and challenging mentoring relationship can assist in personal and professional growth. (Contains 1 figure.)

Presents an overview of the conceptual underpinnings of active, independent, and operative learning that promotes personal development and social change. Analyzes historical, philosophical, and theoretical examples and provides structural limits to compare active learning in multiple contexts. (JOW)

Discusses the synthesis of a body of psychological research that describes the human characteristic referred to as "mindfulness." Analyzes the concept as it relates to personal development and educational settings. (JOW)