Improving Math Outcomes for Adult Learners: Instructional Practices and Resources

How can state leaders and adult education practitioners help adult learners seeking high school equivalency overcome barriers to reaching their educational goals? This webinar explores the Adult Numeracy in the Digital Era (ANDE) course, which offers a comprehensive and practical approach to strengthening adult numeracy instruction and expanding adult learners’ access to effective math learning opportunities. 

This 30-minute webinar explores how the Adult Numeracy in the Digital Era (ANDE) course uses student-centered, collaborative, and real-world math instruction to support adult learners, including those working toward a GED. Presenters will share evaluation findings, success stories, and examples of how programs can use ANDE in their contexts. Participants will learn how the course works, what the research shows, and how ANDE can expand access to meaningful math learning. 

Who Should Attend?

• Adult Basic Education State Administrators 
• Adult Basic Education Agency Administrators 
• Adult Basic Education Instructors 

Session Discussion Topics

• What is ANDE? 
• Summary of research findings on the impact of ANDE on adult learners’ math knowledge 
• How ANDE can be implemented across different adult education program types 

Featured Speakers

Dr. Ashli-Ann Douglas is a cognitive developmental scientist with the Mathematics Education team at WestEd. She conducts research and evaluation and facilitates professional learning with educators to understand and improve the mathematics learning experiences and outcomes for all students. Her work spans preschool, K–12, and adult basic education contexts and includes a focus on early childhood education, family math engagement, student math mindsets, and culturally responsive-sustaining learning opportunities.

Bryan Matlen is a national expert in learning and cognition. As a Senior Researcher with the Learning and Technology group, he explores how strategies based on cognitive science can be applied to support learning and inform instructional decision-making.

Brent Jackson is a Research Associate in mathematics education at WestEd. Jackson is a former middle school mathematics teacher and has extensive experience in facilitating mathematics teacher professional development.