Last Gamble on Education: Dynamics of Adult Basic Education

The book develops comprehensive and analytical descriptions of significant aspects in the ABE program operation and classroom interaction, and the perspectives of those involved, in terms of students and curriculum.

Abstract

The book, the result of a two-year research project on urban adult basic eduction (ABE) develops comprehensive and analytical descriptions o significantoaspects in the ABE program operation and classroom interaction, and the perspectives of those involved. The study was conducted .4n.large city public schools throughout,-,the country, and the information gathered is presented in chapter form, following an introduction stating methodology and rationale: ABE--The Only Game in Town points out divergent objectives, and funding on local, State, and Federal levels; Classroom Dynamics describes student diversity, enrollment, conduct, failure syndrome, testing, teaching approaches, and discipline; The Students deals with motivational reasons for enrolling in terms of race, sex, and age; Teachers and Counselors supplies background and salary information, and perceptions of students and curriculum; Para?rofessionals supplies backgrqund and funding information, and defines job duties and reCruitmentselection process; Directors explores background and perspectives on students, teachers, the program, funding, salary, and status; Hustling the Community discusses variables in achieving funding 'and facilities; Improving the Odds analyzes program improvements in terms of the students involved. (The document is