"All of these learners spoke about feeling more 'confident' as workers because of learning... Many reported better communication skills as a result of their program participation."

- Harvard Graduate School of Education *

The Language Arts component of the CWL ADP focuses on improving students' reading, writing and oral communication skills. The classic novels, short stories and news articles incorporated into the curriculum challenge students to strengthen their critical thinking and analytic skills. Grammar is taught in context so rules can be easily understood and remembered. Additionally, short essays and research reports are assigned to help students develop effective outlining and writing techniques, and since all compositions must be word-processed, students simultaneously improve their computer capabilities.

In the CWL ADP Mathematics course, students learn the basics of math and how it is used in workplace situations. Practical application is emphasized over theoretical concepts for maximum retention by the adult learner. Math operations using whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, problem solving, and graphing are practiced, systems of measurement are demonstrated and basic algebra is creatively used to solve word problems. The student demonstrates competence by preparing for and passing a series of exams.

The CWL ADP US History course explores major themes in US history including immigration, economic development and civil rights. Original source readings, personal histories, historical texts, and documentary films stimulate interest in our past and serve as a bridge to current events. Students write and present several papers to demonstrate their knowledge of diverse subject matter. All compositions are incorporated into the final project portfolio.

The CWL ADP Science course explores the history of scientific principles and their practical application to problem solving. Students establish a solid basis of knowledge of scientific principles while learning essential vocabulary and patterns of explanation. The course helps students build skills for understanding current events and controversies involving science and technology. In addition, the course is always customized to suit the needs of the adult learners in their specific professions. Each student is encouraged to expand upon an area of interest in a research paper and make a presentation to the class. This Science research project is integrated into the students' diploma portfolios along with the other subjects.

Through the LEW students have the opportunity to reflect on their prior learning gained in non-traditional settings. This course explores the skills necessary to become a more productive and promotable worker. Self-assessments and paths to career advancement are emphasized. Students systematically reflect on their lives and build a plan to fulfill their educational and professional goals. Time is spent on writing resumes, investigating particular occupations and writing letters of application. The final product is a 3-5 page paper answering the following questions: Who am I?, Where am I?, and Where am I going? Students also practice giving oral presentations and interviewing for job positions.

Proficiency in computer applications is a critical skill in today's workplace. In the CWL ADP Information Technology Literacy course, students learn core computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. The students then apply their skills to writing and formatting reports, using spreadsheet software to analyze and graph mathematical situations and using the Internet to conduct research.