1.0 Background to the Research

In the recent past adult literacy practitioners have begun to explore New Learning Technologies (NLT) with increasing confidence. Since 1994 a number of initiatives within the ALBE sector have seen a growth of print and on-line adult literacy resources. State and National literacy and language related organisations have developed their electronic resource base and have established Websites which provide information and resources.

Realising the significance of new learning technologies for ALBE the Adult Literacy Research Network Node for Victoria (ALRNNV), as part of its networking and research promotion activities in 1994-95, initiated a Networking through e-mail technology Project aimed at promoting the use of computer mediated communication amongst adult literacy professionals. The project's main purposes were to establish a mailing list facility for ALBE professionals, and to induct them in the use of Internet and e-mail technology, and to promote discussion and exchange of information.

Funding support from Education Network Australia (EdNA) enabled this professional development work to be expanded in 1995-96 when Internet access was provided to 10 ALBE sites in metropolitan and rural Victoria and a mailing list for adult literacy learners established.

Individual teachers and learners from these sites are continuing to use NLTs in innovative and interesting ways. Many have established themselves as leading community networking sites. Further initiatives from Adult Community and Further Education (ACFE) and Multimedia Victoria have resulted in more development and growth of technology use in the sector. More teachers are training through the Internet and using it in their training and professional work. ALBE learners are finding new ways to enhance their learning and community participation.

At the same time implementation of NLTs has proved difficult for some ALBE participants indicating a need to identify barriers to participation in technology and formulate successful strategies for further training and professional development. Between August and December 1997 the Australian National Training Authority

(ANTA) funded the Literacy Learning Through Technology (LLTT) Project to document current practices of Internet use by Adult Literacy and Basic Education (ALBE) teachers and learners at nine ALBE sites in Victoria. The project identified strategies that enhance uptake of on-line technologies and collected successful examples of on-line use by teachers and learners.