A National Conversation About Learning: The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Unions' National Learning Needs Assessment

Abstract:

The final report of the International Adult Literacy Survey (IALS) provides compelling demographic information that clearly reveals that "the stock of skills held by the population is important for the economic development of a country. Certainly, the investment in human capital has become a Business, Labour and Government priority.

In 2000-2001 the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union's National Literacy Project undertook a National Learning Needs Assessment to determine what changes were impacting workers' need to renew learning and enhance skills. This national learning needs assessment was groundbreaking because it provided all three stakeholders - members, union officers, and employers - with an opportunity to find a common path toward learning and prosperity. Using IALS information as a backdrop, the two presenters will describe the inclusive process, share findings and invite discussion of the issues that emerged.

Presenters:

Mr. Ian Thorn
Ms. Nancy Steel

Ian Thorn has been a national representative with the Communications, Energy & Paperworkers Union for 18 years, and has been active in the literacy field since 1993. He is currently coordinating the National Literacy Project for the Union, and in doing so works with the Canadian Labour Congress, with provincial Federations of Labour, and with local CEP union offices to promote and support workplace essential skills programs.

Nancy Steel has practiced workplace essential skills for 15 years and has worked in a variety of industries across Canada to promote programs, assess needs, develop programs, evaluate programs and train trainers. She has worked with both Business and Labour organizations and believes that essential skills learning is an agenda item that invites their collaboration for their mutual benefit.

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