Literacy Works!

There is a great deal of research and information about workplace-based literacy and learning programs. Toronto Workforce Innovation Group has attempted to distill that body of knowledge into useful information about these programs for Toronto workplaces.

The Fact Sheet (PDF below) includes:

• Definitions of the different types of workplace/workforce literacy and learning programs
• Benefits of implementing workplace literacy and/or learning programs
• Guidelines to help employers and workplaces implement literacy and/or learning programs
• Service providers and resources to consult about workplace/workforce literacy and learning programs.

Millions of Canadians struggle with serious literacy challenges. Four in ten working age adults, about 9 million people, scored below the literacy level experts say is necessary to cope with increasing demands in today's society.

Low literacy is a serious challenge in every jurisdiction across Canada. Even in the highest performing provinces or territories, 3 out of 10 Canadians (16 yrs and over) struggle with very serious literacy challenges. They have difficulty with even the most basic written materials. Millions of Canadians struggle with low literacy — we need to tap into this potential.

Across Canada, 9 million working-age adults don't have the skills they need to thrive in today's world — that's more than the entire population of Quebec. Of these, 3 million Canadians, 15%, score at the very lowest literacy level.

According to the International Adult Literacy Survey (IALS1), literacy is the ability to use printed and written information well enough to function in society, achieve personal goals and gain knowledge. Canadian employers report that the top 5 skills needed in today’s workforce are

    * The ability to read and understand information
    * The ability to listen and ask questions
    * The ability to work in teams
    * The ability to share information orally and work with others
    * The ability to assess situations and identify problems.

The following Fact Sheet provides some basic information about workplace/workforce literacy and learning programs. The information will provide a way to find out how to start a program or how to find programs close to your workplace.

Other partners involved in this initiative are the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), the Learning Partnership, Social and Enterprise Development Innovations (SEDI) and the YMCA.

Related documents: 

Literacy_Works_Factsheet.pdf

Strategic Partnerships for Action- Briefing Paper.pdf