The proportion of adult undergraduates to adult populations in the 50 states was calculated. Cross-sectoral analysis identified state characteristics that correlated with participation rates. Best predictors were availability of undergraduate education, educational technology efforts, the population's level of educational attainment, budget…

Notes that while a number of viewpoints about adult literacy assessment exist, no one perspective dominates the field. Argues that both standardized tests and competency-based assessment poorly serve the adult learner. Argues that assessment of the adult learner can be conducted on an informal, nonthreatening basis. (RS)

Three groups of 26 people each (low-literate adults, ninth graders, and sixth graders) wrote on any topic whereas an observer noted their behavior and later discussed their writing. Although the writing behavior of adults was more like that of sixth graders, adults tended to be less efficient. Ninth graders' behavior was considered a prototype.…

Describes a series of evaluation criteria for self-instructional materials for adult learners that focuses on computer-assisted instruction and interactive video instruction. Five categories are included: (1) content; (2) instructional strategies; (3) instructional presentation; (4) documentation; and (5) technical aspects. (10 references) (LRW)

Pre- and posttraining measurement of adult English-as-a-Second-Language learners' (N=18) apology speech act behavior found no clear-cut quantitative improvement after training, although there was an obvious qualitative approximation of native-like speech act behavior in terms of types of intensification and downgrading, choice of strategy, and…

Higher education institutions are creating academic centers or institutes run for and by older adults, often retired professionals. The organizations are quasi-independent and organize their own programs. While they are usually attached to continuing education divisions, they are also seen as a community service. (MSE)

Presents a history of the development of CANAL, a consortium of colleges, universities, and public corporations in Quebec that was formed to distribute televised courses for distance education of adult learners. The marketing of distance education courses is discussed, and audiences, consisting of students and the general public, are examined.…

An orientation for returning nursing students at the University of Hartford has three steps: decide what you want to say, who will be involved, and how information will be presented. The third step follows three principles: set the stage, make it experiential, and make it fun. (SK)

Two studies involving 30 third graders and 26 adults, respectively, assessed whether success at learning to read is related to awareness of phonological structure of spoken language. Differences in phonological awareness appeared to account for much of the variance between good and poor readers at both age levels. (TJH)

The School of New Resources of the College of New Rochelle received Rockefeller Foundation and federal grants to improve the teaching of adult students. Campuses are located in the boroughs and classes are taught on the assumption that adult experiences are valuable and can be used to help teach other students. (MLW)

Based on the premise that the implementation of a humanistic approach to instruction is a considerably problematic and controversial enterprise, caution is advised against extravagant claims about how people learn best. A realistic and appropriate attitude is suggested concerning the role of the adult education teacher of…

Examines various motivations of adults to learn and to participate in organized educational programs. Identifies factors that encourage or inhibit adult participation in educational programs, and distinguishes between learning motivations related to the self and those related to societal obligations. Contains 24 references. (SV)

Data from a survey of admissions directors at urban, public universities and local (Wichita, Kansas) economic indicators were analyzed for possible relationships between the local economy and adult enrollment. Results suggest enrollments do move with the local economy, but average credit hours increase rather than decrease as the economy slows.…

Examines the evolution of distance education and learning via the use of communication technology. Focuses on distance education as a way of preparing returning adult students to meet demands of the labor market, and reviews uses of the World Wide Web as a communication tool to create electronic classrooms and deliver instructional materials. (JMV)

Discussion of open learning in Europe includes the distinction between distance education and open learning; open learning for new groups, including adults who need more flexible choices, and for existing students; and requirements for mainstream open learning relating to flexible academic structures, learning materials, technology, staff roles,…