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The COABE Journal is a theme-oriented and practitioner-focused publication that is published semi-annually. The Fall 2025 edition will be produced in partnership with the National Governors Association (NGA), the bipartisan membership organization for our nation’s governors, and will be themed to amplify diverse voices and foster a richer understanding of how state-level governance can shape the future of adult education.

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The COABE Journal seeks contributions from governors, their advisors, state-level practitioners, and adult education professionals to share best practices, research, innovations, and reflections for the Fall 2025 edition, focusing on cooperative and coordinated efforts to advance adult learning and how state policy and models can transform adult education programs.

 

COABE serves educators who work with adults from various cultural, academic, vocational, and experiential backgrounds. This special edition welcomes contributions that explore the role of initiatives promoted by governors and state leaders for advancing adult education through effective policies, partnerships, and innovative models. Governors can harness resources and relationships that influence impactful programs, ranging from funding and workforce alignment to fostering collaboration across education, workforce, philanthropy, and community organizations. Submissions highlighting partnerships, unique initiatives, research, best practices, and reflections on state policy frameworks that align with and enhance the outcomes of adult education are encouraged.

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Manuscripts will include an abstract that provides a clear overview of the unique aspects of the topic to be presented. Articles for consideration should focus on topics such as those listed below, follow the criteria for the type of article noted in the COABE Journal submission guidelines, and be formatted according to the style of the 7th edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association. Check here for general paper formatting, grammar, citation, and reference guidelines. Please review and apply the principles outlined in the COABE Journal Style Guide before submitting your article.

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The submission deadline was May 12, 2025.

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Suggested Topics:

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• Policy-Driven Innovations in Adult Education

  • Case studies of state-led programs or initiatives that expand access to adult education.

  • Examples of cross-sector partnerships led by the governor’s office or other state agencies to align education and workforce priorities.

• Research and Evaluation of State Strategies

  • Research-based insights into the effectiveness of state policy models in adult education.

  • Evaluations of how governors’ policy actions impact adult learners and communities.

• Historical and Future Perspectives

  • Discussions on the evolution of state-level adult education policies and programs.

  • Exploration of how governors can prepare adult education programs and systems for emerging technologies and challenges.

• Reflections From Practitioners and Students

  • Firsthand perspectives on how state-level programs impact individual learners, families, and communities.