2016 Annual Conference

Exploring adult education approaches and mindset, as States align their unified/combined plans to revitalize the workforce system, per the workforce investment mandates. From a national, state and adult learner perspective, explication of emerging adult learner profile, revealed through statistical research and concepts/practices important to US global sustainability.

The workforce Investment Act requires States to develop a single plan for core programs that include the strategic vision and goals of the State and operational elements that support their 4-year strategy. Target audience is wide and is of interest to all who deals with the adult learner. All Superintendents, Directors and Administrators at State and Local levels. Adult education program administrators, service providers, adult educators, academic institutions, employers. Vocational Rehabilitation, Department of Human Services, Human Resources, training and development specialists, workforce development professionals, prison ministries, and the entire adult education community are invited to participate in the discussion.

The current literacy rate is no better today than it was 10 years ago. Over 37 Million adults are without a high school credentials. 12 Million Adults do not speak English well. In addition, 14 percent of the US population cannot read, 21 percent of adults read below a 5th grade level, and 19 percent of high school graduates have poor diction. Congress amended the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) in response to the challenge aimed at strengthening workforce development through innovation, alignment and improvement of employment, training, and education programs. WIOA calls States to action to align academic standards, and establish literacy and numeracy programs that take an integrated approach. They are required to coordinate core programs and submit a unified plan to develop the US workforce and the adult learner in a sustainable way.
The session is a review and evaluation of the initiative and the ability of educators and organizations to respond to the call under the scope of the theories and principles of adult education. This topic is acute to the sustainability of the US, its ability to create, innovate and maintain its global competitiveness edge.