We used metastudy and metasynthesis techniques to conduct a discursive review of 101 recent publications on the topic of adult functional literacy (FL). Our purpose was to understand the ideologies shaping current definitions and conceptualizations of FL, as well as how and why FL is researched and assessed as it is. Using discursive review…

Reviews and analyzes studies conducted on functional literacy among older adults. The results indicate conceptual confusion, an obviously undereducated older population, inadequate measurements, and samples with disproportionate percentages of older persons. Conclusions indicate the need for educational gerontologists to increase efforts at…

Describes some of the confusion in defining literacy and recommends beginning functional literacy courses in elementary school and continuing them through high school. (TJ)

In noting his reactions to Rafe-uz-Zaman's essay on literacy and national development (see v9, n1 of this journal), the author states that while literacy's contribution to economic development is important, the personal and qualitative development of the individual matters most. He therefore rejects the concept of "functional" education, stressing…

In his review of Rafe-uz-Zaman's essay (see v9, n1 of this journal), the author recommends the essay's message for adult education planners but criticizes many of its views and methods of expression. He calls for discussion of methodology instead of the essay's random survey of various approaches to policy. (MF)

Efficacy research on video based instruction for children with autism is a promising area for practitioners and researchers. Researchers are successfully using video to teach a variety of social and functional skills. This literature review synthesizes these findings and examines critical features of each of the studies that contribute most to the…

The author comments on Rafe-uz-Zaman's approach to literacy education (see v9, n1 of this journal) and points out that literacy in adult education must progress from one stage to the next. He discusses pre-literacy (temporarily bypassing literacy instruction), life-oriented and work-oriented literacy education, educational supply and demand, and…

In discussing Rafe-uz-Zaman's essay on adult literacy and national development (see v9, n1 of this journal), the author cites examples to support his thesis that mass literacy campaigns in predominately agricultural countries can be successful only if there is simultaneous undertaking of economic development programs focused on the rural poor. (MF)