Presents a critical review of the research on the effectiveness of adult literacy programs. Suggests that the methods used in current literacy programs offer students little chance of significant improvement. (ARH)

Reviews research that presents the criteria by which adult literacy program effectiveness can be assessed. (MG)

Looks at developments in adult reading over the past two decades, concentrating on the training of teachers, testing and evaluation, and program evaluation methods. Concludes that while adult reading has made substantial progress, it is still not a mature field. (FL)