FIMESIP First Nations, Inuit and Métis Essential Skills Inventory Project

Seven Generations Education Institute – Essential Skills Training for the Workplace

First Nations communities in the SGEI catchment area identified a common need for Essential Skills training for members of their communities. Adults, some of whom were receiving Ontario Works benefits, needed this training in order to pursue higher education. The program combines print-based learning materials with on-line learning in 8 or 12 week sessions. Upon completion, students will be prepared for on-the-job training for specific positions, re-entry into the education system to complete credits toward their high school graduation diploma, or employment in entry-level jobs.

There are three main goals:
• to re-engage adult learners with the education system
• to prepare students for further job-related training
• to prepare students for employment

Location Ontario
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website http://www.7generations.org/
Contact

Wayne Zimmer, Director of Apprenticeship, Skills and Development , Seven Generations Education Institute
807-468-3096
waynez@7generations.org

Project Details
Community Urban, Rural, Reserve community
Scope of Project Provincial / Territorial
Target Audience First Nations, Métis, Youth (15-30 yrs), Adults (31-49 yrs)

Initiative Impact

What is the overall impact of the initiative and how is this measured?

Completion rate of the program has been 82-97%.

Instructors note attitude changes through increased attendance, higher achievement results and increased participation in the program.  Increased registration for further training and successful employment are indicators of program impact.

Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms:

  • Tracking student registration in other SGEI programs
  • Instructors monitor attendance and assignment completion in the classroom each day. The PLATO system tracks student time on task.
  • Staff are monitored by a coordinator who provides a curriculum guide, orients instructors, visits the program and communicates regularly via phone and email.
  • Assessments are delivered to all participants prior to and upon completion of the programs. These results can then be compared to Placement Test results in order to measure progress.  Similarly, PLATO has lesson, unit and course tests which measure student mastery of skills and concepts.
What challenges have you faced and how were these overcome?
  • Transportation
  • Child care
  • Internet access in remote locations
What are 3 key lessons you learned from developing or delivering your initiative? What advice from those lessons would you share with others?
  • Curriculum guides for instructors result in program uniformity and consistent outcomes for students.
  • A blended approach of on-line and print-based resources effectively engages students.
  • The Life Skills component of the program is necessary for all learners.

Incorporation of Essential Skills

Which Essential Skills are covered by the initiative? Reading Text Document Use Numeracy Writing Oral Communications Working with Others Computer Use
How do you assess participant Essential Skills?

Potential students must complete online assessments and score at a Level 2 or 3.  They must also complete the Employment Readiness Scale which identifies their individual needs and potential obstacles to employability.  Other assessments of academic skill may be administered in order to guide programming.

Assessments are delivered to all participants prior to and upon completion of the programs.  These results can then be compared to Placement Test results in order to measure progress.  Similarly, PLATO has lesson, unit and course tests which measure student mastery of skills and concepts.

Project Components

What are the components of the initiative? Life skills Cultural, language, and tradition awareness and/or training
How do you support participant success in the program? Attendance allowance Food allowance and/or on-site meals Work related clothing/equipment Job placements Wage subsidies Access to other in-house services
What do you think are the most important competencies and attributes for staff involved in this initiative to have?

Instructors are generally Ontario College of Teachers certified teachers or retired teachers.  Some have background in the particular workforce which students will enter.