Virtual flexibility: Adult literacy and new technologies in remote communities

This action research project investigated the use of technology in the flexible delivery of three interrelated adult literacy programs in a remote community. Longreach in central western Queensland was the location for an adult literacy program for thirty students, a tutor training program and an adult literacy teaching professional development course. Because of the project's timeline, these three programs were conducted simultaneously. Tutor and teacher programs were conducted from the Rockhampton while the adult literacy program was conducted at Longreach campus. Technologies such as videoconferencing, Internet, e-mail and audioconferencing were used in the programs' delivery. The research found that technology can enable teachers and tutors to participate in training programs from a distance. However, they must have access to relevant training and constant practice with these technologies. While content specific knowledge or skills may be disseminated via these technologies, adult literacy students have to have the physical presence of a tutor or teacher with them as they learn through these technologies.