New research shows that adults with the lowest literacy and numeracy skills are likely to have experienced substantial disadvantage from early childhood. As the journeys of many adult learners attest, education can transform opportunity. What is more likely to motivate them to take up an educational offer is a life course transition or a new…

A British longitudinal study measured adult numeracy at ages 16 and 37. The longer the absence from paid employment, the greater the negative impact on numeracy. This effect was strongest for men who had poor math scores at 16. (SK)

Comparison of early labor market experiences of two British cohorts born in 1958 and 1970 shows that, among the younger group, those without academic qualifications had consistently higher unemployment rates than their older counterparts who similarly lacked basic skills. Key requirements for employability have demonstrably increased over time.…

Examines a theoretical framework of research organized by human, social, and identity capital. Reports results from two large-scale longitudinal datasets. Focuses on four outcome clusters: (1) health; (2) well-being; (3) social attitudes; and (4) political involvement. Concludes that education is an absolute prerequisite for promotion of personal…