An examination of second language learning focuses on how universal cognitive processes in language learning and individual differences account for differences in language learning patterns. An introductory section gives background information suggesting that psycholinguistic factors in language learning should receive more attention for two…

A study conducted at Southwest Virginia Community College investigated the cognitive styles of students who were enrolled in distance education courses for one semester. Because video-based presentations of material severely limit teacher-student interaction, the distance learner must possess self-discipline, self-organization, and self-planning…

Current practice in accreditation of prior and informal learning in the United Kingdom was examined through a review of literature on how the accreditation of prior and informal learning is being used to gain access to higher education or toward certification of a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) or Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ).…

A sample of 16 national experts on career assessment from many geographic areas of the country and different professional roles were surveyed to identify those career assessment instruments that are most used, or most likely to be useful, with special populations. In round 1 of the survey, the experts nominated 93 instruments, including 27 that…

This document is intended to assist members of Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) technical assistance teams who are making site visits for the purpose of helping high school leaders and teachers identify the changes needed to achieve the High Schools That Work goal of improved student achievement through blending high-level academic and…

Current research in the English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) field has not assessed the comparative ability of indirect and direct test scores to predict academic success. Work of this kind would inform practice in the area of testing and placement. This study investigates the practical problem of making appropriate placement decisions for students…

This report presents findings about the academic performance of elementary students with limited English proficiency (LEP) who entered first grade in Texas public schools in 1992-93. In general, performance gaps existed between elementary LEP students and non-LEP students, in terms of Texas Assessment of Academic Skills (TAAS) results and…

Part of a series designed to provide practical resources for transition personnel on a variety of topics essential to the process of preparing individuals with disabilities for adulthood, this guide focuses on assessment for transition planning. Chapter 1, "Transitions Assessment: What Do We Need To Know about Students and Why?," discusses the…

This manual aids professional development adult education (AE) facilitators in conducting AE workshops using Quality Professional Development (QPD) Project materials. A workshop outline is provided. Six sections correspond to the six manuals in the training package. Section components are as follows: objectives for five or six units; activities;…

Professional school counselors are required by law and/or regulation in every state to obtain a state-issued credential in order to be employed in public schools. In some states, this credential is called "certification"; others term it "licensure" or "endorsement." This guide provides two charts and information…

These two journal issues present articles on the following: "Understanding and Teaching American Cultural Thought through English Metaphors" (Carl Zhonggang Gao); "An Alternative Model for Novice-Level Elementary ESL Education" (Karen Duke, Ann Mabbott); "Wisconsin's Approach to Academic Assessment for Limited-English…

Adult education practitioners need informal measures for determining whether particular learners may have a learning disability. The process of identifying individuals with possible learning disabilities begins with a simple screening. Screening does not happen just once; it is an ongoing process that serves as the practitioner's guide, at…

This paper introduces a model of adaptive learning relevant to adult learners of English for academic purposes (EAP) in Australia. Adaptive learning refers to latent variables hypothesized to contribute to optimal performance in the language. The model comprises motivation, self-efficacy, language learning anxiety, language learning strategies,…

This packet consists of materials related to Equipped for the Future (EFF), a national, customer-driven, grassroots, standards-based adult literacy system reform initiative of the National Institute for Literacy. "EFF Background Materials" compares the traditional and EFF views of what adults need to know and explains what EFF standards…

This publication contains both a teacher edition and a student edition of materials for a course in graphic arts that covers the process camera, stripping, and platemaking. The course introduces basic concepts and skills necessary for entry-level employment in a graphic communication occupation. The contents of the materials are tied to measurable…