This article describes an approach to second language teaching known as Threshold Level, specifically in its application to French instruction. The approach centers around functional language usage. (Text is in French.) (CLK)

Fordham's College at 60 is open only to adults who are at least 50 years old. It does not issue baccalaureates but does provide its 150 students with some of the credits and a lot of the incentive they need to earn degrees. An admission interview is usually sufficient for entry, and students attend freshman-level seminars. (LBH)

Examines an approach to teaching conversation in New Zealand to adult migrants studying English as a Second Language, using language data from a television soap opera. Compares teacher-made samples of conversation and the scripted conversation of television soaps and points to advantages of using videoed television samples. (15 references)…

The effects of prior knowledge and progress assessment on learning behaviors and motivation were studied in the context of self-study by students at the Open University of the Netherlands. Results with 1,482 adult students show their positive appreciation of assessments for student support but less appreciation of feedback received by mail. (SLD)

Responses from 60% of 1,280 graduates of an extended degree program (1977, 1980, and 1983) revealed the following effects of the program: 85% increased pay, 80% increased job responsibilities, 80% improved job satisfaction, 88% improved job skills, 81% experienced increased status or respect, and over one-third changed careers (especially the 1977…

Many older, working students at metropolitan universities have developed skills to function effectively within international work groups. Teaming these students with faculty members as "learner experts" to aid in developing course content or to deliver innovative curricultural experiences may help keep courses up-to-date, relevant, and exciting.…

A descriptive study addressed student attrition in two Title VII Bilingual Education Career Ladder Programs for Hmong paraprofessionals and traditional-age college students working toward teacher certification in Wisconsin. Surveys showed that dropouts were disproportionately male and nontraditional students; factors included financial problems,…

Discusses three experiments conducted to examine the effects of three types of elaboration--marked paraphrase, unmarked paraphrase, and unnecessary detail--on the listening comprehension of nonnative speakers. Findings indicate that the quality of elaboration has implications for listening comprehension in both the classroom and the workplace. (36…

Interviews with and written responses from 20 Aboriginal adult reentry students illustrated their struggles with changing perspectives of gender relations and family responsibilities. Results suggested that perspective transformation may be a key process in attaining mutuality and equality in relationships. (SK)

Examines the current status of adult literacy programs in rural areas. Discusses the goals of rural adult literacy programs and the types of programs reported to be effective. Discusses the needs of adult illiterates in rural areas and the conditions that support--or limit--the widespread influence of effective programs. (MG)

Discusses Bunker Hill Community College in Massachusetts. Covers many different aspects of the college's programs, all of which have been developed to meet the needs of nontraditional adult learners. Discusses the aims and outcomes of their student-centered approach to education. Briefly comments on how to encourage rather than discourage…

Discusses a teaching strategy devised to introduce adult students to the formalities of contextual analysis and multiplicity thinking and designed to get them to see that phenomena can be described from several points of view simultaneously and that each description has validity. Explores various ways this process eases student anxieties. (JS)

Five surveys investigated the level of integration of special needs adult students based on tutor awareness in Northamptonshire, England. Also assessed was the welcome students receive in classes, based on teacher and student attitudes. (JOW)

As more and more adults enter higher education, adult issues begin to influence the agendas of these institutions. Adult/continuing education in universities is structured as separate departments, specialized centers within departments, specialized universities (such as the Open University), and mainstreamed into university departments. (SK)

Synthesizes information and research on adult female re-entry students and discusses its institutional implications for educators. Explores adult female learner's motivation for re-entry, problems confronting her, and challenges facing institutions as they attempt to meet her needs. (TE)