Training criteria:

• learner-centered, holistic approach with a broad perspective for economic renewal;
• equity and accessibility;
• collateral supports: income, child care, flexible delivery, specialized learning aids, transportation allowances;
• English/French as a second language and literacy training are part of skill development;
• prior learning assessment to evaluate academic and nonacademic knowledge;
• flexible, accessible, integrated components, counselling, academic and technical skills, academic certification to achieve transfers, personal and professional development, employment skills, work placements, computer literacy;
• high-quality, anti-sexist, anti racist curricula, role models, and trainers; portability and transferability of training;
• use of active learning techniques with learners involved in decision-making and evaluation of components and the program as a whole.
  
  
  

Case studies

Five case studies of "women only" programs were chosen to illustrate how the training criteria developed to overcome existing barriers are implemented. These exemplary programs are not representative of the training opportunities available to women. The success of model programs has been proven time and again in evaluations and follow-up studies, yet they are still not integrated into Canada's training system.

The programs profiled are:

Women in Trades, Gibsons, British Columbia: The program is designed to provide participants with the opportunity to learn specific trade skills through an integrated combination of classroom and shop training and on-the-job experience. This program meets the national standards and program development guidelines set by the Women in Trades and Technology Network.

Focus on Change/Focus for Change, Metropolitan Toronto YWCA: This program has served sole-support mothers for 20 years. It runs in six locations in Toronto and the majority of the participants are immigrant women. Literacy, academic subjects, personal support, and career planning are focused.

Women in Successful Employment, St John's, Newfoundland: This bridging program began in 1987 with components to allow women to complete high school and enter career paths with goals that are realistic in the local economy.

Aboriginal Women and the Workplace, Fort McMurray, Alberta: This Pathways program consists of personal and professional development, academic subjects, work placement, and employment readiness.