Consider…

Companies are often looking for a one shot program to improve the performance of certain employees or to boost morale. Where does lifelong learning fit in?

Most organizations understand the importance of continuous improvement which is linked to ongoing learning, especially informal learning. Some companies are mandated to provide formal training for employees as part of their certification for international quality or safety systems. Educators can use these continuous learning opportunities as an entry into thinking about a training or education strategy, which includes language and literacy. Integrating basic skills into job specific training is one guarantee of securing a place in a continuum of training. Often, we have to begin where the organization is at, demonstrate the value of workplace education and then engage the partners in more learning for life and work.

Quality Educators

High quality educators (also referred to as practitioners) are the bedrock of workplace education programs and are expected to engage in good practice with all their partners. In broad terms, workplace educators can be described as “facilitating the learning process” (Folinsbee, 1998, p. 5). In Ontario, the roles of educators have often been divided between instructors who deliver programs and develop curriculum, and coordinators/consultants who market, negotiate, conduct ONAs, and evaluations.