Adult Career Pathways Resources

September 2020, ProLiteracy released a research brief focused on the importance of contextualizing adult education. Read more to learn about what research has to say, as well as strategies to contextualize instruction with adult learners.

This Employer Engagement Toolkit contains flyers designed to assist Adult Education programs connect with local employers regarding workplace education programs or more generalized collaboration strategies. All flyers describe the short and long term return on investment (ROI) that is possible through collaborations with ABE. Customize each flyer with your ABE program’s contact information, logo, and preferred wording. A free Canva account is required to copy and edit the view-only files. New to Canva? A brief tutorial is included.

The Measurable Skill Gain (MSG) Selector from the National Reporting System (NRS) for Adult Education is an interactive decision-making tool to help understand which type of MSG is appropriate for participants in Workplace Literacy (WPL) and Integrated Education and Training (IET) programs, and which types of achievements can count for each MSG type. MSG types 3, 4, and 5 can be used only for WPL and IET program participants.

According to the LINCS website: "This website introduces employers and educators to the value of partnering, presents best practices and success stories, and provides links to evidence-based tools for building and sustaining partnerships and creating career pathways. The toolkit is intended to help educators and employers form successful partnerships that will ensure that adult education and career and technical education are truly job-driven. The site presents valuable information in two sections, one tailored for employers and one for educators. Each section includes examples of how partnerships have made a difference as well as links to important resources."

This is one of three innovative programming briefs created in collaboration with the Minnesota Association of Workforce Boards (MAWB), covering important workforce-oriented topics that are viewed as best practices for adult learners. The Workplace Literacy brief includes a summary of what the practice includes, outlines their impact and benefit for adult learners, and spotlights a successful ABE program in the state leading these efforts.

This 67-page guide from ProLiteracy outlines key considerations for developing a workplace education program. It details each step of the process—including research, assessment, design, and implementation—and provides examples of measurable objectives, goals, and adaptable strategies to meet your specific needs.