Motivational research identifies utility value, or the importance of a learning task to future goals, as central to motivation to learn. This study analyzed survey data (N=86) collected from adult literacy learners to examine their utility value of writing improvement in grammar and spelling skills, word processing skills, and planning, drafting,…

Motivational research identifies utility value, or the importance of a learning task to future goals, as central to motivation to learn. This study analyzed survey data (N = 86) collected from adult literacy learners to examine their utility value of writing improvement in grammar and spelling skills, word processing skills, and planning,…

There are many readability tools that instructors can use to help adult learners select reading materials. We describe and compare different types of readability tools: formulas calculated by hand, tools found on the Web, tools embedded in a word processing program, and readability tools found in a commercial software program. Practitioners do not…

Everyone knows that lack of internet access can reinforce the social and economic disadvantages already facing some older people. Recognising the divisive nature of digital exclusion, the government has invested 2.8 million British Pounds in Get Digital, a project that will enable sheltered housing residents to develop computer and internet…

Although mature students in the word processing classroom are capable of learning how to operate the equipment, they need a strong support system until they gain self-confidence. (JOW)

A computer-based collaborative approach to writing like the Daedalus Instructional System (DIS) can help students to learn to write for communication and to read for understanding. The DIS, created to reflect the collaborative learning philosophy, is networked, and fosters communication through reading and writing. The system provides CONTACT, an…

Instructors who are sensitive to the needs of adult students promote a classroom atmosphere conducive to learning. Students learn best when following a well-organized program of instruction. (JOW)

Describes outstanding business education programs in individual schools. (JOW)

A study was conducted to determine whether deaf and hearing students generated different quantities of errors on word processing documents in a mainstreamed class. It also examined whether these students measured up to job-ready work quality standards. A literature review focused on the following topics: (1) needs assessment for deaf adult…

Advocates computer-assisted instruction (CAI) for developing emergent literacy skills of adult students. Discusses types of CAI formats that engage adults in holistic, concept-driven instruction. Describes specific software programs useful for adults functioning at beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels of reading proficiency. (SR)

An overview is presented of the ways in which various types of computer software and instructional strategies can be used effectively with English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) adult literacy learners. Computer use in language and literacy development in general is first reviewed. It is then noted that in spite of the progress made in hardware and…

This proposal culminates a 5-year study of the possibility of awarding associate degrees at Gallaudet College, a private, liberal arts college for hearing impaired adults. The proposal outlines an Associate of Applied Science degree (AAS) in Office Systems at the School of Preparatory Studies. First, introductory material provides a brief history…

Describes a writing program that addresses adult students' limited access to computers and the program's effect on a pilot group of students. Offers some preliminary conclusions about the effects of computer availability on teaching methodology. (MS)

A discussion of the use of word processing for the instruction of English as a Second Language (ESL) is presented in two parts. The first addresses the uses of the technology in teaching language skills, including writing, vocabulary, grammatical competence, reading skills, and oral skills. Related literature is reviewed and specific examples of…

A project was conducted to introduce adults in a rural community in New York to Apple computers. Adults in the Addison School District of Steuben County were recruited through the county cooperative extension program and through high school and elementary school bulletins. Four courses were conducted with from 10 to 25 adults in each four-part…