Adopting the methods of multimodal conversation analysis, this study demonstrates that adult second language (L2) users with emergent literacy formulate requests as 'complex multimodal Gestalts' consisting prototypically of deictic or depictive gestures combined with gaze, situationally relevant material, and vocal or linguistic resources. The…

A study of Hmong adult immigrants in a Hmong literacy class investigated four aspects of their learning behaviors: specific behaviors manifested in the literacy classroom; overt learning strategies used for literacy learning; major motivations; and specific uses for Hmong literacy skills. Data were gathered through observation, interviews,…

A 12-month program provides adult Indochinese refugees with the basic communication skills and understanding of American culture needed to help them secure or upgrade employment. Offered through the community college system, the program is divided into four levels of instruction: non-literate, beginning, intermediate, and upper intermediate. The…

Two models for teaching fluency and literacy in English as a Second Language (ESL) and native language literacy are described and the effectiveness of these models is demonstrated. Both models use cultural sharing and problem-posing as a basis for language learning. The objectives of these teaching models are to use language learning as a vehicle…

This document contains seven previously published papers examining trends in adult education in Japan. "Deepening Democracy" (1992) examines democracy and adult education for special needs groups (women, dropouts, disabled persons, ethnic minorities, and refugees). "Literacy Movement" (1990) traces literacy education in Japan…