Canadian Council on Learning | Conseil Canadien sur l'Apprentissage

Question Scans

Question 23: What are the most effective strategies to enhance learner access to Adult Basic Education and literacy programs, especially for individuals from groups with special barriers?

Overview

This Question Scan identifies key research about effective strategies for enhancing access to adult basic education (ABE) and literacy programs for learners with special barriers.

Four research databases were searched for literature, and twenty literacy websites were scanned. Of the eighty-two articles retrieved, one review and seventy reports or surveys were found. The observed themes in the literature identify barriers to access and retention, delivery systems and design, and specific ABE programs. The literature appears to suggest that child care is an important factor with regard to accessing to ABE.

A majority of articles employ empirical methods of analysis to explore the question, suggesting that a review of evidence is feasible.

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