Key events, such as the NLS Policy Consultations on workplace literacy, research, and technology, brought people together with expertise from an evolving field, especially in workplace education. The basic structure of these national consultations focused on a review of past NLS activities on the theme, an analysis of the roadblocks encountered, and a vision of the next five to ten years. These events took place during the period of development and demonstration and were held in high esteem by all stakeholders. Conferences organized by WWestnet over the three periods of time were also considered key training events for new partners and already established partners. This is indicated in the following citation from a recent WWestnet Impact report.
Respondents rated WWestnet’s efforts as a broker of workplace essential skills as highly effective. WWestnet’s objectives were rated as very consistent with those of the workplace essential skills community. WWestnet’s role in improving the workplace essential skills of western Canadians was rated as very necessary and 71% reported that WWestnet’s conferences and events were highly relevant.
A combined total of 78% of respondents felt that WWestnet reached its target audience very well or somewhat well. When asked about the history of Workplace Essential Skills, 98.5% rated the importance as somewhat or very important and nearly 78% said they used historical information. Respondents overwhelming felt that information on different perspectives (Business, Labour, Aboriginal and Apprenticeship) was very important.
Source: Measuring the Impact: WWestnet Conferences 2000-2005. Final Report, p.9.