Empowering Women through Literacy : Views from Experience (Adult Education Special Topics: Theory, Research and Practice in Lifelong Learning)

This unique volume of writings by educators in the field working with women's literacy reveals the many ways in which addressing women's empowerment through literacy continues to impact lives. Not only are teachers and learners in adult basic education (ABE), literacy and English language learning (ELL) classes affected, but also those who value and support women’s learning and equity, and education for social change. Revelations-- More than half of the 3.6 million students in adult basic/literacy education (ABE) programs across the U.S. are women (Sticht, 2001). Research outlines many barriers for women pursuing basic education and literacy, and recommends using woman-positive approaches (Sheared, 1994). However, there exists little research on how educational systems and policies, instructional materials, and pedagogical practices best support the literacy and educational achievement of women literacy learners. Writings and curriculum by individual educators outline and describe innovative activities/ programs focused specifically on the needs of women learners (Cuban & Hayes, 1996; Hayes & Flannery, 2000; Miller & Alexander, 2004; Young & Padilla, 1990). In recent years, educators have been developing innovative curriculum to address such issues as trauma and violence (e.g., Take on the Challenge), work-readiness (e.g. Ready for Work), or women's issues in general (Making Connection). New Directions-- Empowering Women through Literacy: Voices from Experience is the first comprehensive collection of writing from the field by everyday educators who experience the joys and challenges, creativity and barriers to acknowledge or integrate innovative solutions to support women's learning needs in adult basic education and literacy settings. Mirroring the power of community-based and grassroots organizations, this volume has had a remarkable history. It has emerged from five years of work by WE LEARN (Women Expanding Literacy Education Action Resource Network) to address