National Adult Literacy Database

The authors of this report have examined 20 specific union-led learning programs to determine what makes such programs effective.

Of the 20 case studies, 17 are from Canada, two are from the United Kingdom, and one is from New Zealand. Each includes information about how the program started; its objectives and logistics; and the impact the program has had.

The programs described in the report reflect a broad spectrum of objectives, including training in one of Canada’s official languages for recent immigrants; technical upgrading; and education about the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees.

The authors note that workplace education training is successful when the union is an equal partner with management in decision-making; there is a joint management and union committee; and the terms of reference for the committee are agreed to jointly and reflect worker-centered adult education principles.