Slide 01

An Introduction To Integrating Essential Skills Into Training Programs

WWestnet, Integrating Essential Skills Workshop (Yellowknife, May 24 )

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Slide 02

Overview of today’s presentation:

• What are essential skills and the background
• Why should we address ES skills in our training?
• How do we integrate ES into our programs and courses?
  • by explicitly incorporating them in course objectives and learning outcomes
  • by understanding that each ES has a range of complexity
  • by using authentic workplace tasks and materials in our training
  • by introducing active learning strategies
  • by using a project-based approach
  • by making problem solving the driver for all ES training
  • by ensuring that the ES we teach are transferable

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Slide 03

Active Learning

• Active learning - anything that is not sitting passively listening to a lecture
• Learners reflect on their learning
• Learners are active participants in their learning
• Learning takes place in relevant (authentic) contexts
• Some examples: case studies, scenarios, group work (cooperative learning), role plays, facilitated discussions using how and why, simulations, presentations, self- assessment activities, panel discussions, peer teaching, guided design, interactive lectures, drama, making things, hands-on activities, journaling or blogging, making a learning website, dull information via an interesting task, interviews, research, etc.
• Active learning log

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Slide 04

Should we be training our learners to:

• carry out a wide variety of everyday occupational tasks including computer and document use tasks?
• meet the numeracy demands of today’s jobs?
• learn new skills?
• adapt to changes in the workplace?
• seek answers, solve problems and think critically?

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Slide 05

• use printed and written information to perform competently?
• be organized, efficient and to pay attention to detail?
• work well with others?
• be effective oral communicators?
• have the skills to make researched, responsible decisions
• keep a job and “move up the ladder” if they so choose?
• fulfill their individual and collective potential at work, at home, and in the community?

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Slide 06

If you consider these outcomes important, have you included some or all of them in your program objectives?

Circle all ES objectives or tasks in your course outlines

• If you have them – you understand what essential skills are and you are on your way to integrating them.
• If you don’t have them – make essential skills part of your learning objectives.

The integration of essential skills starts with program objectives and learner outcomes. Objectives and outcomes should respond to identified ES needs.

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