Utilizing Michael Polanyi's theory of knowledge as a framework, the author outlines an approach in which illiterate adults might increase their motivation and chances of success in developing reading skill. (EM)

The British Broadcasting Corporation's Adult Literacy Project is believed to be the first attempt to use broadcasting on a massive scale to discover the extent of the illiteracy problem in an industrialized society and to contribute to its alleviation. While television or radio cannot, on its own, achieve a great deal, this project supplements the…

School attainment, age, and other factors considered in defining the concept of functional illiteracy are examined in connection with the problem in Canada. Various Canadian adult basic education programs, mostly oriented to the labor market, are described, as well as the national effort in some other countries. (MF)

This article describes the successful effort to reduce illiteracy in Cuba by sending young student teachers into the rural areas to teach reading to workers in isolated spots throughout the country. (JD)

Presents the results of a study on how adult illiterates process text, which showed that adults engaged in a greater degree of meaning-related processing and more graphemic and graphophonic processing in expository text. Adults were more successful with narrative text. (JC)

Summarizes interviews with adult illiterates enrolled in volunteer reading programs. Reports that no one remembered being read to as a child, and that interviewees recommended phonics, sound work, and word work to improve reading instruction. Emphasizes the importance of self-esteem, and of reading and telling stories to children. (MM)

Advocates using annual reports to help adult learners bridge the gap between competence with basic reading tasks and competence with more difficult and complex tasks which require inferential thinking and application of information for decision making and problem solving. (RS)

Examines volunteer tutors' use of the Paired Reading technique with adults. Although enjoyable and relatively effective, the technique needs improvement in order for long-term benefits to result. (ARH)

The Jefferson County (Kentucky) Adult Reading Program, which has demonstrated exceptional success in reaching, retaining, and teaching thousands of adults in need of basic reading and writing skills, is described. An adaptation of this program in a correctional setting is examined also. (Author/CT)

Presents an unexpurgated interview with an 18-year-old prisoner soon after he learned to read and write, showing the importance of teacher caring in the process. (HOD)

Describes the development and pilot testing of an interactive software lesson series designed to increase reading and writing abilities of illiterate adults and adolescents. Results of pilot studies of the High Quality Educational Program indicate the microcomputer approach to instruction combined with appropriate software offers a promising tool…

Description of the California Literacy Campaign instituted by California State Library highlights statewide commitment to provide public library services to help adults attain English-language ability and local projects. Examples of several projects (e.g., Modoc County Adult Tutorial Program, Tri-City Literacy Coalition), and community-based…

An emerging theme in professional development for adult literacy program staff over the past decade has been the topic of learning disabilities (LD). As adult educators have come to recognize that the effects of LD can play a significant role in the performance and retention of adult learners, many have sought answers to the following questions:…

Background: Adult literacy rates are an important indicator for describing the status of education and development within a country. The Lao national literacy survey was undertaken in 2001 to provide a reliable source of literacy data which in turn will determine if the country will reach Education For All (EFA) goals agreed upon at the World…

This document offers individual institution reports for partnership programs in Wyoming's seven community colleges. The colleges are: (1) Casper College; (2) Central Wyoming College; (3) Eastern Wyoming College; (4) Laramie County Community College; (5) Northwest College; (6) Sheridan College; and (7) Western Wyoming Community College. Wyoming…