Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Apprenticeship • DELTA • CASAS Assessment

Adult Basic Skills

Term from Adult Education industry explained for recruiters

Adult Basic Skills refers to fundamental learning programs that help adults improve their essential life and work capabilities. These programs typically cover reading, writing, math, and sometimes basic computer use. Teachers in this field help adult learners who may have missed educational opportunities earlier in life or need to refresh their knowledge for work or personal growth. Similar terms include Adult Basic Education (ABE), Adult Literacy, or Fundamental Skills Education. These programs are often offered through community colleges, libraries, or community centers, helping adults build confidence and independence in their daily lives.

Examples in Resumes

Developed and taught Adult Basic Skills courses focusing on workplace mathematics and writing

Created engaging curriculum for Adult Basic Education program serving 200+ students annually

Led Adult Basic Skills workshops in partnership with local employment agencies

Increased student retention by 40% in Adult Basic Skills and Adult Literacy programs

Typical job title: "Adult Basic Skills Instructors"

Also try searching for:

Adult Education Teacher Adult Basic Education Instructor Adult Literacy Teacher Basic Skills Instructor Adult Learning Specialist Adult Education Coordinator ABE Teacher

Where to Find Adult Basic Skills Instructors

Professional Organizations

• COABE (Coalition on Adult Basic Education)
• ProLiteracy
• TESOL International Association

Job Boards

Online Communities

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a program-wide curriculum that addresses diverse learning needs in adult education?

Expected Answer: A senior instructor should discuss needs assessment strategies, creating flexible learning paths, incorporating real-world applications, and methods for tracking student progress. They should mention experience with program evaluation and adjustment based on student outcomes.

Q: How do you handle program administration and staff development in an adult education setting?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience in managing budgets, training other instructors, developing program policies, maintaining compliance with funding requirements, and creating professional development opportunities for staff.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you adapt your teaching methods for different adult learning styles?

Expected Answer: Should explain various teaching strategies like hands-on activities, visual aids, group work, and real-life applications. Should discuss experience in modifying approaches based on student feedback and progress.

Q: What strategies do you use to keep adult learners motivated and engaged?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating relevant, practical lessons, building student confidence, using adult-appropriate materials, and incorporating students' life experiences into learning activities.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is your approach to assessing adult learners' current skill levels?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic assessment methods, understanding of standard assessment tools, and ability to create a supportive, non-threatening testing environment for adult learners.

Q: How do you create a supportive learning environment for adult students?

Expected Answer: Should discuss strategies for making students feel comfortable, respecting their experiences, maintaining confidentiality, and providing encouragement and positive feedback.