AFTERWORD

This was not designed as a research document. However, common patterns concerning successful adult learners emerged. Generally, the features associated with success divided into two categories: program characteristics and individual behaviours. There has been no attempt to prioritize any of the items which follow.

BEAD program characteristics which encouraged success: individualized programs caring, competent teachers flexible program times flexible curriculum regular visits from counsellors positive initial experience as adult learners support from other students proximity of learning centres to students' homes opportunity to transfer to other AVC programs Individual behaviours (actions) which encouraged success: establishing goals attending regularly & purposefully completing extra work outside class remaining positive persisting, even in the face of obstacles

It is worth noting that the majority of people interviewed spent between six and twelve months at a BEAD Adult Learning Centre before transferring to other programs. Second, the GED was the most popular preparation for better employment and further education or training.

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