National Institute for Literacy
 

LINCS Resource Collections

Program Planning

Basic SkillsThe Program Planning Resource Collection focuses on assessment, learning disabilities, and program improvement. Although these topics are separate, some of the selected resources will be useful across topics. For example, a resource listed under Assessment or Learning Disabilities might assist program staff in developing Program Improvement plans and improving learner outcomes.

Assessment
How should I use assessment results to help organize my program, plan instruction, and demonstrate adult learning gains

These principles provide information on best practices in assessment as well as information on how to make assessment the most effective.
Assessment Strategies & Reading Profiles (ASRP) presents research-based assessment practices for the adult education classroom. This online diagnostic reading assessment, based on the ARCS Study, shows instructors how to identify students' reading strengths and weaknesses. Instructors can use this knowledge to target their instruction more effectively.
Firm evidence shows that formative assessment is an essential component of classroom work and that its development can raise standards of achievement. Mr. Black and Mr. Wiliam point out: "A focus on standards and accountability that ignores the processes of teaching and learning in classrooms will not provide the direction that teachers need in their quest to improve."
This project explored learners' experiences and understanding of progress and sought to define and articulate this knowledge. The research showed the importance of understanding and valuing the perspectives learners have of their progress. We discovered numerous nonacademic outcomes critical to learners' progress that they associated with adult literacy programs. Learners realized very well what literacy can do for them and value the many nonacademic outcomes they experience in various facets of their lives.

Learning Disabilities
How can you address the needs of adults with learning disabilities?

Products/Materials
The article gives a general explanation of learning disabilities, states what is covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and lists some accommodation ideas for the workplace. It includes several examples of job situations and how the employee was provided with an accommodation to help them succeed.
This article presents information to assist students with LD, counselors and employers to build the bridge between community college and work. Students must learn to articulate how their LD impacts them in a variety of situations, especially those requiring learning and performing work related tasks. Preparing for job interviews, anticipating barriers throughout the employment process, and developing ways to mitigate these barriers are essential skills that must be learned.
This article gives an overview of the most common categories of assistive technology (AT) that support literacy and language development.
In this article, the authors provide guidelines and summarize research on the challenges faced by adults with LD when transitioning to post-secondary schooling and employment. It also highlights issues around disclosure of learning disabilities and requesting appropriate accommodations for a course of study in college or to perform essential functions on the job.
Research Papers/Articles
This article reviews recent advances in the neurobiology of dyslexia and their implications for adults with dyslexia.

Program Improvement
What approaches are effective for improving my program and services for adult learners?

Products/Materials
The Baldrige National Quality Program includes Criteria for Performance Excellence in Business, Health Care and Education.
This guide was written to orient and provide support to new program managers. The document reviewers noted that the sections on staffing, working with adult learners, leadership, and program design and delivery are particularly strong.
This guide offers activities, guidelines and resources for those interested in using inquiry groups and research methods in their program improvement efforts.
Equipped for the Future (EFF) is a standards-based approach to reform in the adult literacy education system. This handbook is designed to help community-based organizations that provide adult education to improve their program quality.
This article explores a step-by-step strategy for conducting an evaluation that can provide the evidence needed to make critical decisions about improving staff development programs for the benefit of teachers, administrators, and students.
Research Papers/Articles
Coaching is presented as a strategy that increases the instructional capacity of schools and teachers, thereby holding great promise for program improvement.
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Last updated: Wednesday, 03-Sep-2008 15:19:10 EDT