Communication skills for prairie grain elevator operators

The Communication Enhancement Program began as a partnership between two competing grain companies: the Manitoba Pool Elevators (MPE) is a member-owned, unionized co-operative; the United Grain Growers (UGG) is a private, non-unionized company. In 1992, they examined the need for improving literacy and numeracy for grain elevator operators because of the demands of technological and structural changes. Both companies were positive in their support, emphasizing the importance of building on existing literacy skills.

They insisted that there would be no testing to determine literacy levels and no additional needs assessment interviewing. They also required approval of part of the curriculum before the course began.

A work-related basic-skills program was designed. Skills included report and letter writing, reading, presentation and conversational skills, math skills, and computer use. Some of the topics were marketing, public and customer relations, grain grading, chemical use, and future concerns of the industry.

MAE offered the course in central locations in designated regions. An off-season 10-week session provided 50 hours of group class time and 30 hours of home study. The class time was directed to introducing and clarifying literacy tasks required for this workplace. The home study provided time for consolidation of material, tutorials, and feedback on progress. The course progressed from basic-skills strategies to student-generated scenarios that incorporated many literacy tasks. The course was highly motivational in that it allowed participants to bring their work-related expertise to the group.

Participants varied a great deal in educational background, years of service, and job responsibilities. Ongoing reflection and evaluation were important to the success of the program — curriculum was revised according to the needs and developing interests of the participants.

The final curriculum incorporates skills and material applicable to the wide spectrum of needs and interests across all the groups. Commitment from MPE management for employee time and financial resources has ensured the program's ongoing success. MPE has contributed more than 9,000 employee hours and $120,000 in program development and costs (to June 1995) and is assuming management and total responsibility for the program.