Developing Adult Literacy

An essential companion for those working in adult literacy, this book is designed to assist and support people who plan, develop, and deliver literacy programs and initiatives for adults. Using a mix of theory and practical real-life examples, the book sets out some of the main concepts of literacy and approaches to adult literacy education used throughout the world. These are then used to show the wide variety of different ways to develop and manage adult literacy programs.

Logically structured into sections, the book sets the scene for beginning to work on adult literacy. It presents the four key concepts of literacy that have shaped much of literacy learning over the last 30 years and the associated approaches. Preparation and planning for literacy learning is also covered, followed by a series of practical guides.

The authors demonstrate the huge importance of literacy and its power to improve lives, while also showing that the role literacy plays in development is not a simple one and is never a quick fix solution. Literacy initiatives are complex and must take into account the local context, resources, scale, and most importantly the purposes of learners, the local community, and other key stakeholders.