Recently I have been talking to the distance learning instructors in our
state Project about the computer literacy skills that dl learners bring with
them when they enroll in our programs.  There seem to be three categories:
1) those with no computer literacy 2) those with computer literacy 3) and
those that have computer literacy based on recreational use of the computer.
While this third group may bring a certain "comfort level" with them when
they enroll in the program, they don't feel as comfortable or confident
using the computer for GED prep.

Our discussions have focused on this third sub-group as we try to figure out
strategies that will help this group of learners make a transition from a
recreational to a more academic use of the computer.  I have also been
wondering what sort of data, reports, or statistics are available that will
help me understand better the learners that fall into this third category.
What resources can I look at to understand better the age range and
educational level of the sub-group?



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Jennifer Rafferty
Adult Literacy Resource Institute
Boston SABES
ABE Distance Learning Project Manager
617-287-4081
jennifer.rafferty at umb.edu

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