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,…

According to responses from 158 of 301 adults in evening and weekend college classes, most were especially satisfied with enrollment information and advising, and they wanted extended hours for most services. Six services were not used by over half of the students, either because adults focused on class attendance, had multiple commitments, or…

A study of 106 adult students in off-campus interactive television courses found that grade point average was the strongest predictor of performance. Student perceptions of the promptness of material delivery and their year in college contributed to the predictive power. No demographic variables were related to performance. (SK)

A British study of 92 adult basic education students and 32 tutors showed that individualized learning was emphasized at the expense of small groups. "Preferred types" of students, those most likely to be able to do well in open learning, tacitly emerged, limiting access for adults with learning difficulties. (SK)

A survey of 60 adult students participating in university preparation courses found a weak positive correlation between importance of personal goals and success in achieving them. Of 193 participants in the course and 193 controls, controls took more courses, possibly because those who are aware of their anxiety about college consciously choose a…