SECTION 2

EXAMPLES OF MATERIALS
FOR WORKER-CENTRED UNION LITERACY

1. Introduction to the Examples

In this section, we present two examples of materials for worker-centred union literacy - Fight for the Living and Water Watch. Both units are based on authentic print materials produced by the labour movement and both units take their names from these original sources. The two sample units provide illustrations of how the curriculum framework in Section 1 can be applied in practice. Each unit consists of a series of activities that weave together the dual strands of problem-posing and literacy development. The detailed descriptions of the activities, plus participant handouts, provide instructors with materials that they can actually use in their programs.

Materials - product and process

In so far as these materials provide a curriculum resource for instructors, they are a product. As products, the materials can be used - or consumed - for program instruction. Yet, these materials are not intended merely as products to be consumed and put aside. They - and the curriculum guide as a whole - are intended to model and generate certain kinds of processes.

For instance, our examples can be seen as prototypes for a process of materials development based on the worker-centred union literacy curriculum framework. There is a great need for worker-centred materials in union programs. These units are but two limited examples of the many that might be produced. It is hoped that these examples, along with the guidelines for materials development in Section 3, will spark and provide support for further creative efforts by trade unionists involved in union-based literacy - efforts that will result in materials development projects reflecting the diversity across the country.