2.3. Project Methodology

The methodology for collecting and assembling the data for this project and identifying potential solutions involved a variety of standard research approaches. These included:

• Engaging an Advisory Team of 20 individuals representative of the various stakeholders in this project for consultation and to provide guidance and direction;
• Participating in two educational / information sessions; and
• Reviewing literature which included international level to local level surveys, reports / studies and websites;
• Completing an environmental scan of more than 100 literacy and disability organizations;
• Conducting one–on–one interviews with 16 service providers in both the literacy and disability communities, and individuals in government involved in program development and funding;
• Holding 3 focus groups with a total of 31 participants including service providers and learners with disabilities. The 18 representatives from the service provider community participated in two focus groups. They represented the following types of organizations:
  • 8 from literacy organizations,
  • 6 from disability organizations,
  • 2 from government,
  • 1 from the HRM Library, and
  • 1 from the Halifax Regional CAP Association

  The 13 participants from the learner community who attended the third focus group were referred from their respective literacy or disability programs, as shown below:

  • 6 from the Bedford / Sackville Literacy Network,
  • 3 from the Halifax Regional Library,
  • 2 from the Dartmouth Literacy Network,
  • 1 from The Work Bridge, and
  • 1 from the Next Step.

  The learner participants represented a variety of disabilities. Some disclosed their disability to the group and others did not. Those who disclosed had learning disabilities, mental health and intellectual challenges.