Key questions for the caseworkers:

How do I know if the parents…
  1. Have made progress towards their goals in measurable ways?
  2. Can apply what has been learned to every day life?
  3. Have achieved skills that count in terms of their next step?

Centres that host the program are also asked for their feedback. Each session, their feedback is used to constantly improve on the program (Appendix 8).

For the host sites:

How do I know if the families…
  1. Were comfortable in our site?
  2. Will return for other programs in our site?
  3. Will refer other families to our site?
Finally, as a check for the facilitator, they are asked to review their program practices to ensure that they have met the needs of the families consistently. Since every group of parents is different, even though the curriculum content will be similar, a facilitator will have to adapt facilitation strategies in order to make the material relevant for the families.

Steps of Intake and Assessment

  1. Initially all parents who phone about registering for GSL are screened for appropriate literacy level for each program. The initial telephone screen tool is found in Appendix 1. We have found that it is helpful if parents are able to understand the information presented and practised in the GSL classes. It is important for the registration person that the parent has a reason for wanting to enroll in the program (goal) as well as that parent is having some difficulties with literacy, self-confidence and self-esteem. All of these skills are strengthened in a GSL class.
  2. After the GSL classes are underway, each parent is given the “What did I learn today” form so that an anecdotal record can be recorded. These anecdotes are used as quotes in the final reports.
  3. The midpoint evaluation is given to the parents. It is important that the facilitator review these evaluations to see if the parents are learning things that are important to them (review the section on Adult Education principles in this manual – Section A).
  4. The facilitator makes modifications as necessary based on the communication form and midpoint evaluations.
  5. Child care providers continue to record their observations on the children’s learning in preparation for completing the “Child Report Card.” (Appendix 5)
  6. Parent fifinal evaluation is done by parents.
  7. Evaluations are faxed to the caseworkers and recorded by the facilitator when returned.
  8. Host centres and child care workers also complete the evaluations and share with the GSL facilitator.
  9. All data is recorded in final report.
  10. GSL facilitators meet to discuss recommendations and changes to be made for the next session of GSL.