The teaching of writing, an important element in reading instruction, is undervalued in literacy programs. Writing instruction must deal with negative attitudes, lack of self-confidence, and "writers block," as well as with mechanics. Many writing techniques can improve reading comprehension as well. They are essential to both tutorial or…

Examining literacy and adult education in the United Kingdom (U.K.), this issue is divided into four parts: (1) Introductory Survey, which discusses the U.K. experience in adult literacy; (2) The Provider, which presents agencies involved in adult education; (3) Resources, which describes the Adult Literacy Resource Agency; and (4) Learning…

Describes recent activities in Africa, Asia, and Latin America that are bringing printed materials to people in villages and on farms. (MKM)

Suggests that the teaching of reading and writing to adults is difficult but not impossible, especially with a carefully planned and executed program; outlines four sequential stages of such a program. (JM)

A survey of 30 participants in the Botswana National Literacy Programme identified collaborating agencies, levels of collaboration and coordination, and cooperative activities. The Department of Nonformal Education was recognized as the appropriate coordinator of collaboration. Participation of nongovernmental organizations was essential. (SK)

Aims to determine the cognitive processes of adult literacy acquisition. Assesses the progress of 59 women in an intensive adult literacy program in Turkey. Finds that after only 90 hours of instruction, there were significant improvements in letter and word recognition, phonological awareness, and spelling levels. Notes results are consistent…

Addresses the question of the role of general speed/rate of processing in reading impairment in adults. Compares 95 adults varying in word-recognition ability. Shows significant and pervasive speed/rate differences among groups, as well as differences in accuracy performance. (SG)

Analysis of Australian national and state policies and reports on adult literacy identified themes and issues: (1) movement from volunteerism to marketization to globalization; (2) fluctuations and reductions in funding; (3) changes in the role of professional associations due to political and educational agendas; and (4) increased ties to…

Adult literacy students (n=344) read, retold, and answered questions about two narrative and/or expository passages. Miscue analysis revealed few differences across nine reading levels. Results of the three tasks indicate adults at all stages of literacy development make effective use of their knowledge as they read. An integrated, spiral…

Examines ways in which the evaluative criteria of literacy education are being displaced by those with a work force development focus. Illustrates the consequences of criterion bleed: the concept of basic skills is being shifted from a means of democratic participation to a tool for employment. Urges adult literacy educators to adopt a critical…

Examines a model of professional development including preprofessional, autonomous, collegial, and postprofessional phases. Addresses the importance of reflective practice in moving from autonomous to collegial. Suggests the potential for computer-mediated communication to promote reflective dialogue. (Contains 30 references.) (SK)

Describes the phenomenon of the writing workshop as it developed in the early days of the British adult literacy campaign. Discusses the history of the workshops, how a writing event works, organizational concerns, educational implications, and contrasts with other methods of teaching adult literacy. (RS)

Presents nine learning activities on polysyllabic words, letting go of control of other people's learning, setting a baseline for language-minority students, word banks for adult literacy, student journals in the workplace ESL classroom, effective definitions for word learning, "Readers Areas" in public places, and students writing to athletes.…

Presents the Pennsylvania State Coalition for Adult Literacy as a model for understanding state and local literacy coalitions. Cites elements of success in coalition building: trust, a sense of mission, strong leadership, and clear identification of the target populations of each member agency. (SK)

The Iraqi National Literacy Campaign is described. Early efforts and reform actions taken since 1968 by the Baath Socialist Party are covered. Special attention is given to administrative structures involved. Reasons for the relative success of the program are highlighted. (TJH)