[NLA] Research in Adult Literacy Education

[AWilder106@aol.com]

Hi Nancy,

"Seeking comments from all sides" depends on the research question being 
asked, "seeking comments from all sides"  may or may not be part of the 
methodology to answer a particular question.

As I said before, a researcher should seek disconfirming evidence, that is, 
credible evidence that may run counter to the data gathered, analysis and 
conclusions.  Researchers want their work to stand scrutiny, the reason for 
review of research proposals by knowledgeable people and the reason for 
professional scrutiny after the fact.    

In the instance I cited before, a former student could not learn to read by 
using phonics.  This should say to a researcher:  "Oops!  There is not one 
way to teach and learn reading and writing."   

Paula Tallal's research on reading and writing pointed to a single core 
phonological deficit in dyslexia.  Other researchers are now looking at what 
may be another core deficit in some learners.  This would give rise to other 
criteria to look at in teaching/learning reading and writing.

If our culture rested on the ability to ride a bicycle, I am sure bicycle 
riding deficits would also be found.

And with adults there are still other factors to consider, such as previous 
learning and habits which now must be undone.  There is also the potential 
emotional damage which results from years of shame and hiding.  In this 
regard, John Corcoran's book, "the teacher who coudn't read," is very 
instructive.

It is my job to understand some of the neuroscience that is associated with 
reading problems and promising instructional methods; to look also at some of 
the social conditions that prevented the person from getting proper 
instruction sooner, and to listen carefully to people in the field, such as 
yourself, to understand your experience with and perception of adult 
learners, what you feel works, doesn't work, in the field, and why.

I would be extremely interested if you would give me references to several 
recent studies (within the last couple of years) on learning how to read and 
write that you feel are flawed.  

Or anyone else.  Pick a couple of major ones.  Chapter and verse, please, 
references as complete as possible.  

Thanks a lot.

Andrea
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