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While the
classifications in Table XXI are somewhat arbitrary and dependent to a great
extent on the description provided by the respondent during their interview,
the data show some interesting patterns. As noted earlier, the overall levels
of satisfaction are consistently above the normative mean (except for GED
graduates with Vocational training). What is very interesting is the elevation
of scores at the low and high ranges of the continuum; that is, the high
satisfaction ratings attained by individuals achieving doctoral degrees are
equaled by individuals whose highest level was ABE, ESL and Literacy. The
individual pursuing ministry training (who was also an ABE student) was also
elevated. Indirectly, what appears to be suggested is the concept that
valuation of education in terms of credits and degrees may not be a sound
barometer of individual satisfaction.
Summary
To summarize
the findings of the Descriptive Study:
Personal and
Family Data:
- Participants
ranged in age from 24 to 80 with the majority falling into the middle
years.
- Majority of
participants were white (58.5 percent) followed by Black (27.1 percent) and
Asian and Hispanic (7.1 percent)
- Current
marital status was Married (57.1 percent), Single (11.4 percent) and Separated,
Divorced or Widowed (31.5 percent).
- Some 245
children were reported; nine percent of these came from single parent homes
while 91 percent were the result of one to three marriages.
- Participants
were relatively active in outside activities with computer usage (71 percent)
and church related activities (59 percent) leading the way.
Employment
Data:
- Levels of
employment ranged between 60 percent and 70 percent in a population where 40
percent were over 50 years of age.
- Average
length of time for current employment was 10.8 years and for former employment,
9.2 years.
- Following
ABLE participation, salaried employment increased by 12 percent while public
assistance and food stamps both decreased by 27 percent.
- The majority
of participants perceived themselves as falling into the “middle
class.”
Educational
Data:
- Females far
outnumbering males in GED enrollment while males outnumbered females entering
basic literacy classes.
- Highest
educational levels reported were: higher education degrees (20 percent);
attended college courses (20 percent); received a GED or High School diploma
(49 percent). Eleven percent (11 percent) did not achieve a GED or high school
diploma.
- Of all the
participants, 72 percent were motivated to pursue further education while 11
percent actually received scholarships.
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