Research: Instructional Approaches
Research on Adult Learning Theory are listed in Reports and Articles under More Resources.
Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view PDF files. To download a free copy, please visit the Adobe web site. Affecting Changes in Literacy Practice of Adult Learners: Impact of Two Dimensions of Instruction
V. Purcell-Gates, S. Degener, E. Jacobson and M. Soler, National Center for the Study of Adult Learning and Literacy (NCSALL), 2000
Examines the extent to which certain aspects of adult literacy programs' types of classroom activities/materials and level of collaboration between students and teachers affect learners' "literacy practice" outside the classroom. Provides snapshots of some of the adult learners participating in the study.
Download/view: PDF (396KB) | HTML Considering Culture in the Selection of Teaching Approaches for Adults
L. Ziegahn, ERIC Digest No. 231, 2001
Describes the impact of culture on teaching and learning. Highlights key areas of cultural difference and examines culturally sensitive learning approaches. Provides useful bibliography.
http://www.ericdigests.org/2002-3/culture.htm Focus on Basics: Modes of Delivery
National Center for the Study of Adult Learning and Literacy (NCSALL), Volume 7, Issue C, 2005
Examines various instructional approaches, including communicative language teaching, individual and group instruction, differentiated instruction, one-on-one tutoring, and online instruction. Also reviews findings from a learner engagement study.
Download/view: PDF (1.1MB) | HTML Knowledge in Action: The Promise of Project-Based Learning
H. Spruck Wrigley, Focus on Basics, National Center for the Study of Adult Learning and Literacy (NCSALL), December 1998
This introduction to project-based learning describes its history, benefits to adult learners, the teacher's role in a project-based classroom, and examples of the theory in practice.
http://www.ncsall.net/?id=384 The Partnership for Reading
National Institute for Literacy (NIFL), National Institute for Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), U.S. Department of Education, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
The Partnership for Reading strives to make scientifically based reading research more accessible to parents, educators, and policymakers. Has a large database of evidence-based research, principles, and practices in reading instruction for children, youth, and adults. Covers topics such as assessment, alphabetics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and computer technology. Also offers effective teaching strategies for adults in basic education and family literacy programs, including Applying Research in Reading Instruction for Adults: First Steps for Teachers and Teaching Adults to Read: A Summary of Scientifically Based Research Principles.
http://www.nifl.gov/partnershipforreading/ Research in Spelling: Implications for Adult Basic Education
D. Sawyer and M. Joyce, in J. Comings, B. Garner, and C. Smith (Eds.), Annual Review of Adult Learning and Literacy, Volume 6, 2006
Provides an historical overview of spelling instruction, examines the four principal theories of spelling, and presents research on how adults, including those with disabilities, learn how to spell. Concludes with recommendations for practice, research, and policy.
Download/view: PDF (185KB) | HTML Rethinking Literacy Education: The Critical Need for Practice-Based Change
B.A. Quigley, Jossey-Bass Publishers, 1997
New approach to literacy encompasses a variety of work, family, and cultural considerations. Redefines the needs of low literacy learners for practitioners and provides several concrete alternatives for instruction. Available for purchase from
http://www.josseybass.com/cda/product/0,,078790287X,00.html The Role of Vocabulary Instruction in Adult Basic Education
M. Curtis, in J. Comings, B. Garner, and C. Smith (Eds.), Annual Review of Adult Learning and Literacy, Volume 6, 2006
Analyzes research and theories on vocabulary, vocabulary acquisition, and reading comprehension. Presents approaches to vocabulary instruction that have been proven effective. Also makes recommendations for practice, research, and policy.
Download/view: PDF (203KB) | HTML |
