New Technologies and Adult Literacy and Numeracy in the UK

Abstract

The paper outlines the problems in the area of adult literacy and numeracy in the UK, describes UK government strategy to tackle this issue, and the methods proposed for the use of new technologies to aid in the delivery of this strategy. Three key themes in the policy for using new technologies in this area are identified: Can new technologies be used in such a way as to enable greater access to literacy and numeracy provision for adults? In what ways can new technologies be used with this group of learners to enhance their learning? What are the new basic literacies of the 21st century?The paper describes some research carried out by the authors adressing the first two themes, and outlines ongoing debates about the third theme.