Hi everyone,

I am forwarding this post from the NLA List regarding the GED.  How
timely that David Rosen has posted this intriguing question in light of
my email post earlier today in which I raised the issue of having more
discussion on GED on this list.  What are your thoughts?
marie
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AAACE-NLA Colleagues,

Several states are trying to increase the number of people who pass  
the GED.  There are "fast track" states like Virginia, and  
"incentive" states like Tennessee, and others.  It would appear to be  
a good idea to provide more resources for GED classes, and to pay for  
part or all of the test fees for students who cannot afford them, as  
Tennessee is doing, but I wonder if, in some cases, a "GED push"  
results in lower (barely passing) test scores for some of those who  
are urged to take the test too soon, before they have had any  
substantial instruction or study.  If so, a push might defeat the  
goal of preparing GED holders to succeed in college -- unless they  
also do a college transition program after getting the GED.  As it  
is, only a tiny percent of  GED holders enroll and complete a college  
degree program, and without post secondary education, the GED has  
little or no economic impact, so if by rushing them to take the test  
we undermine their preparation for postsecondary education I think we  
aren't doing students any favors.

I wonder if anyone in states where the GED push is on has  
observations about how this affects performance on the GED or  
preparation for college.  If so, please post here (or e-mail me  
privately).

David J. Rosen
Adult Literacy Advocate
DJRosen at theworld.com

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