Study Circles
The goal of the National Center for the Study of Adult Learning and Literacy Study Circles is to help adult basic education practitioners learn about theories and concepts related to or coming out of NCSALL’s research and discuss how such concepts can be applied to practice and policy in adult basic education. NCSALL feels that there needs to be a process that “translates” theoretical concepts into practical suggestions, and that practitioners should be involved in that process. The prime vehicles for translating research theories into practical suggestions for practitioners (or feedback for university-based researchers) are activities such as practitioner research and Study Circles where practitioners can learn about, discuss and/or try out ideas from research.
Study Circles are designed for any practitioners who work in adult basic education programs: teachers, program directors, counselors, volunteers, or others. Most of the Study Circles deal with topics that are broad enough to be of interest to ABE, GED, and ESOL practitioners in a variety of delivery settings: community-based organizations, local educational authorities, libraries, correctional facilities, etc. The design of the Study Circle, and the readings, are appropriate for new or experienced practitioners.
The Study Circle is designed for approximately 8 participants. Each Study Circle is designed for nine hours, divided into three sessions of three hours. Study Circles provide the participants with the opportunity to read, think, and talk about what research findings mean and whether they are useful or applicable to adult basic education classrooms and programs. Getting practitioners involved in reading and thinking about the uses of research in their practice is important for ensuring that research is actually influencing practice.
