This digest defines the concepts of "whole language,""learner-centered," and "participatory," and discusses their application to adult learning in ESL literacy programs. All three approaches advocate that the learner should inform literacy instruction with his or her own particular input, that learners and their background knowledge and experiences should be respected and valued and that learning activities should be relevant to learners' personal situations. The three approaches also differ: "whole language" works from whole to part and emphasizes function over form; "learner-centered" is concerned with collaborative decision-making about the curriculum; and "participatory" focuses on literacy as a vehicle for personal and social change. (Contains 12 references.) (Adjunct ERIC Clearinghouse on Literacy Education) (LET)