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Linking Literacy and Society

Stream Summary: 

Literacy and essential skills programming does not exist in a vacuum.

It is intrinsically tied to public policy, employment, health, children’s education, academic research and community issues. How can these ties be better established?

How can the learning outcomes of children, new Canadians and all students be measured to make more direct linkages between literacy and other aspects of society?

According to professionals in the field, effectively demonstrating these linkages requires a combination of practical tools and academic research. Workshops under this stream examine the role for literacy advocacy, and highlight how literacy is tied to other important social and community issues such as health, finance and family.

Stream Documents: 
application/pdf iconSession 204 - Brigid Hayes
application/pdf iconSession 304 - Janet Hunter
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Social Capital

Presenter(s): 
Brigid Hayes
Session: 
204

A Framework for Literacy Policy and Advocacy

The literacy and essential skills field does not currently have a way to speak to outcomes outside of measurable levels (i.e., IALS levels 1, 2, 3). It needs one though, because human capital (quantity of skill) does not sufficiently explain the outcomes of learning. Social capital – the benefits that occur while people increase their skills – directly and indirectly improves the social and economic outcomes realized through adult learning. These benefits are achieved as much through learners’ growth as they are by learners acquiring actual skills.

Quotes: 

Session Video: 
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The Newcomer Finances Toolkit

Presenter(s): 
Janet Hunter
Session: 
304

Improving Financial Literacy

All Canadians need clear, concise information on finances and financial services, but people with literacy challenges are especially vulnerable to fraud and are less aware of banking procedures and money-saving government programs. The Newcomer Finances Toolkit provides free information and teaching modules on interest rates, income tax, bill payments, credit card applications and other everyday activities to increase students’ financial literacy.

Quotes: 

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Musical Approaches to Family Literacy

Presenter(s): 
Anne Jackson and Deb Nesbitt-Munroe
Session: 
504

There is a strong connection between music and literacy as songs and rhymes can be used as tools to develop language skills and personal growth. Almost every essential skill can be taught using a musical approach to teaching. Research shows music helps memory, improves math skills and greatly furthers learning. Meanwhile soft skills, parenting skills and physical well-being can also be enhanced. Watch Anne and Deb demonstrate fun musical learning activities in this interactive workshop.

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Social Policy

Presenter(s): 
Gino Leblanc
Session: 
604

Bridging Government, Academia and Community in Research

Academia and community-based knowledge are critical to building evidence and informing public policy, since government has limited capacity to identify community issues. Gino highlights that decision-makers often rely on evidence-based policy and suggests that engaging all community stakeholders is key to developing the best policies possible.

Quotes: 

“Good policy can make good politics.” – Gino Leblanc

Session Video: 
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