The functional literacy movement has emphasized the ability to read job-related materials as a major occupational/functional skill. Various studies, by the Educational Testing Service and others, have supported the contention that the ability to read is a fundamental vocational skill in American society. (CH)

Parents of Chapter 1 reading students were invited to take part in a reading program using courseware for adult beginning readers. A group of 52 parents completed the program; on average they gained more than one year in reading level after 20 hours of instructional time. Impact on children and delivery models are discussed. (CH)

Claims that the preferred method for literacy education today is a technique of self-instruction by small groups of people voluntarily assembled, assisted by representatives of intermediary organizations as necessary, to further the ends of self-reliance and improved living conditions. (JK)

Traces the progress of a beginning adult reader along the literacy continuum shown by child readers. Provides suggestions for teaching reading and writing to beginners which build on a learner's personal experiences and knowledge of language. (ARH)

Reports on a survey of adult literacy programs in the United States, focussing on the issues of student recruitment and retention. Suggests that personal sources are better than non-personal for recruitment, and that extrinsic motivation and a pleasant social environment are factors that can prevent attrition. (ARH)

Presents a critical review of the research on the effectiveness of adult literacy programs. Suggests that the methods used in current literacy programs offer students little chance of significant improvement. (ARH)

Suggests effective means of integrating computers into adult literacy education using commercial word-processing and data base programs including teacher-student interaction. Points out that activities used in most "reading software" are not consistent with the cognitive view of comprehension. (Auth/ARH)

Points to the importance of teaching job literacy. Outlines a method (which was successfully employed in the military) of analyzing job demands, and then constructing and using effective literacy materials. (ARH)

Contains an analysis of prevailing practices in adult literacy volunteer programs. Considers selected research, literature, and programs, mostly from the context of the burgeoning emphasis on literacy voluntarism in the United States. Neglected questions of policy and practice are raised. (Author/CH)

There are an estimated 23 million functionally illiterate adults through the country; 30 million more have such limited proficiency that they are only marginally capable of being productive workers. The proportion of undereducated Appalachian adults is estimated to be substantially higher. Literacy programs offer hope, but are usually underfunded.…

In exploring the relationship between ethics and adult literacy education, some of the major ethical principles of John Dewey are discussed. The actions of adult educators such as Myles Horton are used to demonstrate these principles. Finally, implications are suggested for ways these principles affect adult literacy programs. (Author)

In lieu of literacy programs based on teacher-as-parent, student-as-child relationships or student/teacher partnerships, the authors propose (1) developing an adult/adult learning environment, (2) using a psycholinguistic model of the reading process, and (3) using a cognitive-discovery model of the writing process. (SK)

Discusses the needs of women who are returning to school for adult basic education. Provides suggestions for meeting the needs of this group in terms of professional action, counselor education, teacher training, grants, financial support, publication, and volunteerism. (JAC)

Apparent reading deficiencies among entering workers, combined with increasing demands for highly skilled workers, have led business and industry to increase their training and education efforts. One aspect of this effort requires understanding the reading demands people in various occupations are likely to encounter. This study examines the…

Examines factors contributing to the lack of effective literacy programs for adults. (FL)