The book addresses both theory and practice, explaining the concepts and demonstrating these using real-life examples. The first part sets out the four key concepts of literacy (as skills, tasks, social practices, and critical reflection), and describes associated approaches used throughout the world. The second half covers preparation and planning, offering practical guides for each key element of literacy-programme development.

Using case studies from literacy programmes in many countries including Egypt, India, Indonesia, Mali, Nigeria, the Philippines, and Uganda, the authors demonstrate the importance of literacy and its power to improve lives. They also show that the role literacy plays in social and economic development is not a simple one, and literacy is never a quick-fix solution. Further information on the authors' work can be found on their website: www.3jmliteracy.com


REVIEWS

Clearly written, well structured and extremely reader-friendly, this book is anchored in practical experience and draws on state-of-the-art research. Everyone involved in any way with adult literacy promotion, from governments and international organizations to NGOs and community groups, will welcome this book as one whose time has come.
Adama Ouane, Director, UNESCO International Institute for Lifelong Learning, Hamburg

The book offers a variety of experiences from different countries, combining theories and case studies. It is an interesting read and would be very useful for decision makers as well as practitioners in the field of literacy and adult education. A tremendous much needed effort!
Mokhtar El Gindy, Management and Coordination Team for CELL and Director of The Egyptian Integrated Project For Adult Education 

Congratulations on producing such an outstanding volume that is eminently readable.
Anthony Tassi, Executive Director, Mayor's Office of Adult Education, New York

An invaluable source of reference and practical guidance...for anyone working in the fields of international development and development education.
Jane Mace for Reflect Magazine (NRDC), Issue 10, March 2008

AUTHOR BIOG

The authors Juliet McCaffery, Juliet Merrifield, andJuliet Millican have been involved in adult literacy for manyyears and in many countries. They have designed, developed,taught on, and managed programmes in different parts of theworld. They have developed materials, conducted research, andevaluated programmes. Their breadth of experience ensures thatthis book encompasses both the challenges of implementingprogrammes as well as the key theoretical debates, all in asympathetic and practical manner.

CONTENTS

Foreword by Professor Brian Street

PART 1 - Understanding the context:

Introduction
The international context
Mainstreaming gender

PART 2 - Understanding Literacy:

What do we mean by literacy? 
Literacy as skills 
Literacy as tasks 
Literacy as social practice 
Literacy as critical reflection

PART 3 - Understanding the Preparation Process:

Planning for literacy 
The language of literacy 
Monitoring and evaluating literacy programmes

PART 4 - Understanding the Learning Process:

How people learn to read and write 
Approaches to curriculum 
Resources for literacy 
Training and supporting literacy educators 
Assessing literacy learning

PART 5 - Making Sense of Adult Literacy

Conclusions
References
Index