Functional Context/Outcomes-Based Literacy Assessment

Abstract

Adult literacy assessment is undergoing a shift from school-based achievement tests to functional literacy measures based on real-life tasks. Functional context assessment uses actual texts encountered by adults in their work, family life, church, and communities. Two examples of functional context assessment measures from the USA are presented: the National Adult Literacy Survey (NALS) and the Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (TOFHLA). Results from research studies using the NALS and TOFHLA and implications for South African adult basic education are presented. The introduction of the outcomes-based Independent Examination Board (IEB) Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET) examination system and the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) are discussed in the light of functional context assessment of adult literacy. Finally, concerns about the possible narrowing of ABET objectives and instruction resulting from the use of outcomes-based and functional context assessment are raised.