Credentialing Adult Educators in Illinois: A White Paper for the Field.

An advisory committee oversaw and guided an investigation of credentialing adult education instructors in Illinois. At its direction, a series of focus group inquiries were conducted into issues surrounding the development of a system of professional credentialing. Requirements varied widely in 13 states found to have some form of mandatory credentialing process; options were available in most states with credentialing programs. Essential elements were identified. Focus group discussions identified these three major challenges in instituting a credentialing system: ensuring that all adult education systems are learning organizations that engage in meaningful, transfer-centered professional development; providing consistent, accessible opportunities for professional growth; and providing the systems and resources for professional development that meet the needs of the field and produce the improvements in student performance that credentialing is intended to serve. Recommendations included BA/BS degree minimum; required new instructor orientation program; standard requirement of professional development activity; reward for participation in professional development; database for recording professional development compliance; and hold-harmless provision to retain current instructors. Next steps were public input and establishment of an advisory group to develop a plan for gradual institution of credentialing. (YLB)