The school system is also increasingly open to adult learners. In 1991-92 in Ontario, one in eight secondary school students were 19 years of age or over; in 1980-81, the ratio was less than one in 30. These people, even more than younger students, need institutional linkages. They also need recognition of their skills and experience through a formal system of prior learning assessment.
A cooperative education system at the secondary level must have continuity with further education, whether in colleges and universities or in apprenticeship. Opportunities for career "laddering" (as in the hospitality and tourism industry) will facilitate the school-to-work transition and lifelong learning.
Transfer of credit from one system to another will facilitate efficient use of resources and prevent duplication or repetition of learning. Prior learning assessment would aid in the regular monitoring of prerequisites and adult admission policies. Equity groups should have broad input into setting adult admission policies.
Links to help adults upgrade their education
The school of engineering at Lakehead University offers post-diploma programs in chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering designed specifically for graduates of technology diploma programs. Graduates of the 2-year program earn a Bachelor of Engineering degree. Students may enroll directly after earning a diploma or after working in their chosen field as technologists. Those who choose the latter route tend to be somewhat older (usually in their late 2Os), have several years of work experience, and often have family responsibilities. The program accepts students from technology programs across Canada. During the summer before entry into the program, students are required to enroll in math and science courses to ease their transition to a university degree program. A similar program is offered by the École de technologie supérieure in Montreal, making these two programs unique in Canada. Graduates have been well received in Canadian industry because of their maturity and combined technology and engineering knowledge.