National Adult Literacy Database

Canadian organizations are becoming increasingly aware that they need to maximize the skills of their work force in order to compete and grow, which often means enhancing or refreshing their employees’ essential skills. In this document, the authors present five cases studies involving organizations that faced specific essential skills challenges. The case studies discussed here examine outstanding workplace education programs and initiatives. They highlight best practices in developing essential skills in the workplace and provide an overview of benefits, outcomes and impacts of essential skills training. Learning partners include schools, colleges, universities, workplaces, communities and governments.

Also included in this publication is a 10-step guide to implementing essential skills learning programs in the workplace. It provides information and advice to employers and their learning partners on ways to address challenges.