A study of native language (L1) use in the collaborative interaction of five dyads of native English-speaking adult learners of Spanish as a second language (L2) found that L1 serves a critical function in students' attempts to mutually define task elements, provide each other with scaffolding help, and externalize inner speech. (Author/MSE)

Suggests that the distinction between "genre" and "text type" is important and useful. The article presents an analysis of various texts from two genre-based coursebooks, one which focuses on adult second-language literacy development, and another which focuses on writing in academic context. The article also suggests ways to…

Reports a study that examined the events leading to a career decision in physical education teacher education (PETE) and investigated participant-described behaviors of two delayed-entry PETE students. Interview data revealed that significant life experiences prompted participants to reevaluate their career goals and pursue PETE careers. (SM)

Argues that an understanding of the dynamics of life transitions is crucial to effective adult education programs. Examines the "stage/phase" theory of transitions, maintaining that transitions occur in predictable sequences, and the "life event" theory, which views transitions as the result of social processes. (22 citations) (MAB)

A British government project funded open learning in public libraries. Early provision of open learning packs expanded into uses of information technology. The project demonstrated that supporting adult learning is a core service of the public library. (SK)

Evidence from 100 women in women-only reentry courses suggested that any form of assessment and credit may deter the target audience. Assessment imposes requirements that may reduce program effectiveness. Noncredit programs for disadvantaged women are recommended. (SK)

British survey data from 3,733 on-time graduates and 841 mature graduates (first degree after age 25) showed that lower pay for mature graduates was linked with social class, institution attended, and public sector employment. The public sector was less likely to discriminate against mature graduates. (SK)

Reviews recent philosophical debate surrounding the future role and activities of universities in a technological society; discusses the need for new learning models to meet the needs of working adult students; and presents the demand-driven learning model, a collaborative effort between academics and experts from private and public industries…

Discusses an online distance education program at Boise State University that used Keller's ARCS model, Kaufman's Organizational Elements Model, and Kirkpatrick's evaluation model to improve motivational appeal for the adult learners and reduce the attrition rate. Describes the interventions implemented and presents results of evaluations that…

Examines concept of "lifelong learning" and analyzes its role and its viability within the current higher education system in the U.K. Discusses attitudes toward adult students. Identifies shortcomings in efforts to attract and motivate mature learners and discusses ways in which to improve such efforts. (Contains 48 references.) (KSB)

Describes a controlled experimental study that examined the difference in one specific aspect of learning-development of critical thinking skills-that can be affected for adult students when presented with an educational product that features animation and interactivity. Results indicate the value of multimedia-enhanced educational products for…

Author describes four significant themes that highlight adult students' descriptions of how they experience learning on campus. Three themes address the negative side of the experience (sense of impostorship, exclusion from the cultures that have previously defined them, and notion that college will turn their life around). The hopeful theme that…

Addresses key strategies for the design and development of Interactive Multimedia Instruction (IMI) programs for adult learners, focusing on the removal of learning barriers and the incorporation of information literacy principles. Barriers include financial constraints, socio-economic and social class, communication skills, time constraints,…

This predictive study tested the theory of andragogy in a post-secondary educational setting. It produced a sound psychometric instrument (ALPDEQ). The study was one of the first to successfully isolate adult learners, a major step forward in testing andragogy. Results provided insight of andragogy's effect on two student outcomes, learning and…

Computer-based instruction (CBI) was considered the technological phenomenon to revolutionize education and training. Today, the Internet and computer technology are reported to have significantly altered the education landscape (Johnson & Aragon, 2002). The rapid advances in technology, the need for lifelong learning, and the growth of…