[AAACE-NLA] complex relationship between learningtoread&learningto learn

[Debbie Yoho]

Like Andrea, I wish I had more time for these pithy discussions. But my New
Year's Resolution regarding this list is to hold back, read all comments,
then add AT MOST one or two posts for my two cent's worth.  Perhaps someday
NLA list members can come together in person for a "Renaissance Weekend". 
Typing is so much less efficient than talking.

I explain this conundrum about proving "what works" in this way, perhaps
uniquely my own:

If you give me ten adults to work with, any ten, I really can't look them
over, assess them any way you like, and then predict what will "work". 
That's a Holy Grail.  I truly wish education were more of a science than an
art, but it isn't.  It is more art.  There are too many variables.  Science
can guide and occasionally assert, but it cannot dictate to a human being's
mind.

Now if you give me a substantial number of adults and some amount of time,
I could eventually tell you what "works" with an artificial percentage of
them.  Not what works with individuals, but with an artificial percentage. 
I say artificial because if you then give me another substantial number of
different adults, the percentage will change.  I can't say how much it will
change, but it will change.  This fact I CAN prove.    

Finally, YOU have to tell ME what resources you are willing to put to this
conundrum, but I cannot predict how much of this or that it will take to
achieve this or that result.  I will use every last drop of whatever you
give me, everything you give me,  to the maximum effect possible. I don't
know what is possible.  I just know that without effort nothing is
possible.   If you give me more, I will achieve more.  I CAN promise that. 
You see, I never give up, and this too I can prove (demonstrate).   

I hope the fact that I never give up on a human being (unless forced to
when resources give out) is enough "science" to motivate you to "invest" as
much as you are able in what I do. I pledge to continue to prove to you,
scientifically, that I don't give up.  You have to judge whether or not
your investment is "worth it", by criteria you set. I accept that if you
decide your investment is not worth it, you have the right to stop
investing.  If so,  I would like to change your sense of worth, but I
haven't time.  I am too busy changing lives.  I will give my money to those
who do seek to change your sense of "worth", and cheer them on and help
them all I can. And I invite you to watch, listen, and ask questions while
I am busy working with, not on, people who feel that what we do is "worth"
it.  You are welcome to join in any time.

Happy New Year, everybody.  

For the Cause!  Debbie

Deborah W. Yoho
Co-moderator, NIFL-Health Listserv
Executive Director, Greater Columbia Literacy Council
Past President, SC Adult Literacy Educators
2728 Devine Street,  Columbia, SC  29205
803-765-2555   Fax  803-799-8417   dwyoho at earthlink.net