Low Literacy Levels
Although Toronto has a highly educated population, employers indicate that core skills such as, writing, speaking, detail orientation, presentational skills, critical thinking and problem-solving, all need improvement.
Increased fundamental literacy and numeracy skills (for those with low skills) can improve productivity in the workplace, and help in re-training after job loss. Literacy is more than just reading and writing, it is the way we interact with individuals and institutions, solve complex problems and prepare for a rapidly changing labour market.
TWIG's consultations with employers in key sectors found that employees are lacking critical thinking, problem-solving and customer service skills (Source: TWIG Consultations & The Alliance of Sector Councils 4th Annual Forum on Productivity, February 4th, 2010). These findings were corroborated with the Ontario Litercy Coalition survey that found the majority of adults needing to upgrade their literacy skill are already in the workplace. Of adults who scored at the absolute lowest level of literacy 62% were employed (OLC Literacy Fact Sheet- Literacy in the Workplace).
A strong and literate workforce is essential for a knowledge and service economy, especially in sectors such as Tourism and Retail that depend on good customer service skills. The Metro Toronto Movement for Literacy supports literacy programs in Toronto and is an excellent resource for locating programs in the area. Below are some other examples of literacy and essential skills training programs for employers and people looking for work:
- OTEC's Customer Training Services Program
- Seneca and Employment Ontario's Workforce Ready Program
For more statistics and information on Literacy issues and why literacy matters, please visit the Ontario Literacy Coalition.
