Introduction to ABE

Purpose

Practitioners are being faced with new workforce development program requirements as a result of recent legislation.  Local adult education administrators and teachers are provided with information to more effectively implement Adult Basic Education (ABE) and Workplace Readiness Skills programs.

Terminology

Adult Basic Education (ABE) - Program of instruction designed to improve the employability of the workforce through instruction in mathematics, reading, language, and workforce readiness skills at grade-level equivalency 0.0 –8.9

ABE Reading - Reading instruction from grade-level equivalency 0.0 to 8.9

ABE Mathematics - Mathematics instruction from grade level equivalency 0.0 to 8.9

ABE Language - Language instruction from grade level equivalency 0.0 to 8.9

Student Placement

The purpose of this initial assessment is to place adult education students into the appropriate literacy level as indicated by the Tests of Adult Basic Education (TABE).  Modifications may be made to accommodate adult students with disabilities.

Student Progress

Documentation of student progress and educational gains is required and the following method may be used:

Criterion and/or norm-referenced pre, post, and progress tests Tests of Adult Basic Education (TABE).  In order for the student to move from ABE to GED Preparation it is recommended that the student retest using the TABE to show appropriate placement at or above the 9.0 grade level.  Refer to the test administers manual to ensure validity of pre and posttest results.

Orientation and Placement

Student orientation is an essential element in designing the academic program.  A clear understanding of expectations will better prepare the student for making sound decisions and successfully completing the program.  It is important for students to understand the relationship between improving basic academic skills and performing in the workplace.

Orientation Topics

• School Mission Statement

• Adult Education Registration/Intake Process

• Student Placement Testing

• Student Placement Evaluation

• Short and Long Term Goal Setting

• School Calendar

• Attendance Policies

• Methods of Instruction

• Student Recognition Programs

Career and Transition Planning

Career and transition planning is an important goal of the adult student’s educational program.  Transition from Adult Basic Education to GED or other programs would include entry or advancement to:

• General Educational Development (GED) testing preparation instruction

• A better job/ job advancement

• Postsecondary education (vocational-technical, community college, or university)

• Recruitment and Retention

Recruitment and retention activities are an important part of the Adult Education program.  Recommended activities may include:

• Contacting human service agencies, network organizations, and community members for student referrals;

• Utilizing a variety of media resources such as local newspaper, radio, flyers; and

• Using successful students to partake in recruitment activities

Instructional Program

Effective instruction should incorporate academic and workforce skills to ensure maximum student performance and preparation for employment.  Instruction should include a variety of instructional strategies and resource materials.  This should include individualized instruction, cooperative learning, student-centered and teacher directed instruction.  It is important to ensure that students understand the relationship between academic skills and success in obtaining their goals.