This site is designed to be a resource for instructors, tutors, case managers and supervisors working in the field of Adult Basic Education. It has been developed as a vehicle for the distribution of information to Pennsylvania educators employed in programs funded by the Division of Adult Education within the Bureau of Post secondary and Adult Education.  The goal is to help understand the range of difficulties experienced by most adults who pursue GED, ABE or entry level workplace training.

Restructured Professional Development System


The format for the delivery of professional development has changed significantly for 2011-2012, with an expanded emphasis on agency consultation focused on program improvement.


Consistent with that change, the LDconsultants web site has been revised to highlight material that can be used for agency and personal professional development.


Materials are currently being modified for use in independent study and/or small group presentation with an approved facilitator. As materials become available for Act 48 professional development hours, they will be posted in My Learning Plan where you can register for the activity.


The division has also developed a centralized website for all professional development services. You are encouraged to visit the site in order to gain a “big picture” of all of the services that are available. The site is still in development but can be viewed at http://www.paadultedresources.org/  Look for LD materials in the Teachers section.


For information or assistance please contact  ldconsultants@mac.com

Working with Adult Students that find learning to be difficult
Adapting your instruction can make a differenceAdaptation_Ideas.html
LD Fast Facts - A perfect place to start your professional developmentFast_Facts-Overview.html
Understanding LD through IllustrationsLD_Graphic_Menu.html

News and Information

All division funded programs are engaged in developing Continuous Program Improvement Plans which in turn will influence their professional development efforts. Topics related to increasing learner gain, working with students with learning barriers and student retention tend to dominate agency concerns. In many cases these concerns will be addressed through efforts to develop instructor skills in many of the areas referenced in this website as falling under the general title of “good teaching.” If your agency would like assistance in linking instructional adaptation and diagnostic assessment with your program improvement efforts contact your lead professional development consultant or contact Dr. Gacka at ldconsultants@mac.com.


The GED Testing Service has recently changed the forms used for requesting testing accommodations. The updated information can be found at http://www.acenet.edu/AM/Template.cfm?Section=GEDTS&CONTENTID=42670&TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm  You will now find testing Q&A as well as guidance on the use of materials such as color overlays that do not require an application.


New LD wiggio group established

A new “Adult who have Learning Difficulties” wiggio group is now operational. The wiggio site will deliver additional information to ABE practitioners and provides them with a forum to share ideas. If you are interested in joining the group e-mail ldconsultants@mac.com and indicate your desire to join the group.

About this SiteBackground_and_Experience.html

Unless marked otherwise, permission is granted to copy and use materials for instructional purposes, with the expectation that appropriate citation of the source will be given.

Last updated 2/4/12

Learning differences: Self-Study Needs Assessment:  Application for Act 48 Approval has been submitted

Fasts Facts have been approved for Act 48 Credit: See My Learning Plan

Act 48 LD Professional Development