Adult Learning Policy Review Framework

Briefly describe the multiple agencies responsible for adult learning and workforce training in the state. It should include advisory groups to the governor, state agencies such as Education, Labor, Corrections, Human Services; and governing and coordinating bodies in postsecondary education.

Statements of intent are important in assessing the current and future plans of the state regarding adult learning and workforce training.

Examine documents (i.e. the Governor's State of the State Address or state agency's mission and strategic plans) from organizations and agencies that are responsible for adult learning and workforce training.

Compile a list of goals or statements of intent relating to the topic.

Identify program performance measures required by both federal and state accountability regulations. This list may be similar to those found in goal statements - but look for specific performance measures or benchmarks.

Include program evaluation results when available.

Develop a statewide inventory of education and workforce training programs aimed at adults. This will include such programs as adult basic education, adult secondary education, various initiatives funded through the Workforce Investment Act and state efforts aimed at retraining of workers.

Highlight examples of “best practice” as nominated by state and/or national officials.

Survey selected program directors to understand policy and practice around such issues as articulation, technology-delivered programs, and recent needs assessments. Summarize the details of the survey results.

• Develop a statewide inventory of programs targeted at adults such as continuing and adult education efforts, customized training programs for industry, alternative teacher training and certification, small business development initiatives and Perkins programs in community colleges.

• Conduct a survey of postsecondary education regarding practices in assessment of prior learning, accelerated programs, flexible programming, distance learning, program evaluation, articulation and recent needs assessments. Summarize details of the survey results.

• Develop a table of adult learning and workforce training programs and the amount and source of funding for each program to determine the state's total commitment (including state tax dollars, and federal grants.)

• Describe any funding policies which have a positive or negative effect on the state's commitment to adults (i.e. funding of remediation, continuing education, literacy at the workplace, tax incentives, etc.)

• Create a list of programs and appropriations of student financial assistance programs targeted at adults. If possible, provide levels of current adult participation for each of the financial aid programs.

• Describe any current policies that may be an impediment to adult enrollment in education programs.

• Survey both state agencies and postsecondary institutions regarding the extent and type of marketing initiatives aimed at adults.

• Provide details of your findings and note whether any of these are “statewide” in scope.

• Describe the purpose and composition of advisory and policymaking groups for the primary providers in the area of adult learning and workforce training. Note any obvious “gaps” in representation.

• Describe the entities responsible for developing interagency cooperation and any extant partnerships.

• Summarize the primary findings of the policy review

• Outline possible recommendations.

• Provide any data supporting your findings including survey results, inventories, data tables, etc.

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