The Issue in Brief

In recent years, both policymakers and direct service providers worldwide have begun to explore the possibilities for technology to assist the delivery of high quality, effective instruction to adults. When chosen and used appropriately, various technologies can address the challenges of time, distance, and access to materials by extending adult learners' and teachers' access to information and instructional tools and by supporting the process of lifelong learning. But with all of technology's potential, how to choose and use the most appropriate and effective technological tools to support adult learning remains a challenge.

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The Context in the United States

Due to scarce resources, lack of staff development, and limited knowledge of available technology, adult literacy programs in the United States have only recently begun to use computers for instruction. But even within that short time, practitioners and policymakers have come to realize that technology has the potential to make a major impact on teaching and learning in adult literacy. The types of technology that are being applied in adult literacy programs range from computer-assisted instruction to the use of audio and video recordings, CD-ROMs, and the Internet. It is hoped that these technologies will enhance adult instruction and learning by:

• providing access to wide-ranging resources and materials for instruction;
  
• connecting and extending instruction into life contexts, including the home and workplace;
  
• removing or diminishing barriers to participation, including time and distance; and
  
• facilitating learning for individuals with special learning needs and differences.

One especially promising technology-based initiative is LiteracyLink, a major effort funded by the U.S. Department of Education. The goal of LiteracyLink is to develop a high quality, fully integrated learning system for adult learners and practitioners that builds on the exciting potential for technology and the Internet.

To look at an overview of the project, project activities, or project outcomes and implications, click on the corresponding heading.

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