Continuum of Literacy Program Models: Alternative Approaches for Low‐Literate Welfare Recipients

Abstract

This chapter defines the parameters and limitations of the academic model of adult literacy program development and presents a framework that includes three other approaches: situated context and cognition, literacy integrated with soft skills, and literacy integrated with occupational skills.

Addressing the Employment Challenge for the Formerly Homeless: Supportive Housing in New York City

“…To the extent that community colleges are in a better position to provide basic skills instruction more effectively than community-or employer-based training programs, the enrollment of welfare recipients in community college programs should continue to increase in the near future. Community colleges are well positioned to provide basic skills instruction for adult and non-traditional students (Martin 1999). Most colleges have basic skills learning centers and labs that specialize in remedial education for incoming students.…”

“…Making changes in instruction methods beyond offering basic remedial education courses is a relatively slower process and more difficult to track and monitor. However, early signs indicate that some departments are beginning to implement pedagogy that better fits the WtW student profile (Martin 1999;Dirkx 1999). The institutional response of community colleges to the challenge of serving educationally disadvantaged students suggests that they have the infrastructure and the experience to continue to develop and establish appropriate and effective programs.…”