Some special issues of concern regarding adult literacy in the South Pacific are considered and questions are posed that go beyond the provision of classes and materials. Language diversity, ideological issues, adult literacy planner's profiles, and planning and training are among the topics discussed. (18 references) (LB)

Research findings are discussed that lead to a reassessment of popular perceptions about literacy and prisoners, particularly that the percentage of illiterate prisoners is higher than in the general population and that many prisoners are reluctant to participate in prison literacy programs. (Contains 24 references.) (LB)

A preliminary sketch is provided of some important issues in adult literacy education, based on the work of Paulo Freire and reactions to his theories. (Contains 12 references.) (LB)

A national research project based at La Trobe University is discussed that focuses on how adults in diverse social groups "do" literacy in talking, reading, and writing. (31 references) (LB)

It is argued that there are particular kinds of literacies, each defined by its own characteristic format, style, and context of use. The significant question for the future is not "How literate?" but "Literate how?" (13 references) (LB)

Based on a 1989 research project on the outcomes of adult literacy programs, this paper reports findings in five categories: socioeconomic, personal, social, cognitive, and enactive. The research raises questions about what literacy progress means to adult students and their teachers. (Contains nine references.) (LB)

A study aimed to enhance the opportunities and access to literacy training for women with a non-English-speaking background. Options are proposed for the development of literacy skills from which learners and teachers can choose to suit their own needs. (Contains 20 references.) (LB)

Based on an Australian study, this article notes that people with hearing disabilities are not homogeneous and suggests several language-learning options to be considered by service providers. Contains 24 references. (LB)

This paper draws on a recent theory-driven critical case study that uses ethnographic methods to examine data on the stated needs for literacy of adult literacy learners. It is argued that the literacy needs of adult learners are social constructions. (14 references) (LB)

Implications of the Australia Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) for the English language needs of long-term migrant residents, especially women, are discussed. It is suggested that the revised AMEP policy aims to involve a wider range of organizations and providers. (LB)

The issue of illiteracy in the workplace and the implications for restructuring, multiskilling, and training are discussed. Findings of a national survey, Literacy for Productivity: A Study of Adult Literacy in the Workplace, are also reported. A response supports the argument for implementation of literacy programs. (Contains five references.)…

A research study on the use of technology on Australian literacy programs for adults is reported. Questions were directed to administrators (e.g., objectives, outcomes) teachers (e.g., appropriateness, flexibility, portability), and adult learners (e.g., expectations, needs, feedback). The resulting rating scales were used for specific…

It is suggested that the search to make sense of dominant political ideologies and of their impact on language and literacy curriculum and teaching practice must be deliberately undertaken by teachers and activists if education is to maintain any control over the literacy agenda. (Contains 27 references.) (LB)

A study of the management of literacy needs of rehabilitation clients moving from the health sector back into the community is reported. Focusing on people with physical impairments or brain damage, the study examined what health professionals know about adult literacy programs, identification and management of literacy needs, and perception of…

Describes practical questioning strategies for use in adult literacy classrooms where teachers attempt to balance the daily needs of literacy learning with the broader issue of education for social change. Also discussed is a study of one such classroom and its implications for adult literacy teacher education. (15 references) (MDM)