Search results

This paper has two goals: to interest researchers in pursuing rigorous scientific research in the field of adult literacy; and to identify the many challenges to research and develop approaches to overcoming them so that future research could design more successful studies. It is aimed at present and prospective researchers as well as policymakers and administrators who seek a better understanding of research in this field. The opportunities provided by research in this field are: (1) the small number of studies that both address important questions and apply rigorous scientific methods; (2) the possibility of measuring impact on several important roles; and (3) the ease of access to adult populations. The challenges are: (1) lack of theory-based models for instruction and services; (2) informed consent; (3) incomplete and inconsistent data; (4) inaccurate data; (5) lack of valid and reliable tests; (6) multiple populations; (7) lack of program resources; (8) sampling; (9) shortcomings of existing data sets; and (10) lack of research resources. Options for supporting rigorous research include: (1) a more ambitious effort to describe and develop approaches to overcoming the challenges to scientific research in this field; (2) larger studies; and (3) promotion of adult literacy programs as allies in research.