National Adult Literacy Database

The Office of Literacy and Essential Skills (OLES) at Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) has designed a series of tip sheets to help individuals in the workforce address their literacy and essential skills challenges.

Located in the NALD Library, the booklets include:

Computer Use Tip Sheet
This document includes keyboard shortcuts, tips for dealing with computer problems and advice on Internet security. The authors have included learning exercises at both the basic and higher levels, along with a worksheet to chart progress

Document Use Tip Sheet
The authors of this resource provide a variety of tips for improving the skill of document use. At a general level, tips include using headings to find information quickly and looking for visual cues such as text that has been highlighted for emphasis. Higher level tips include pointers for estimating distance on a map and suggestions for interpreting graphs.

Oral Communication Tip Sheet
This resource is aimed at those who want to make their spoken communication more effective. The authors have included general tips such as speaking more slowly and pronouncing words clearly. Higher level tips include tailoring the message for the audience, asking questions for clarification and using the active rather than the passive voice.

Reading Tip Sheet
This document is aimed at individuals who want to improve their reading skills. The tips range from general ones, like finding a quiet place to read, to more-advanced ones that focus on improving comprehension.

Working with Others Tip Sheet
This tip sheet offers tips for improving the skills needed to work effectively with other people. The tips are divided into sections on working with a partner or a team; working independently; and working in a leadership role. The authors have also included exercises on getting and receiving feedback, and a discussion of different personality types.

Writing Tip Sheet
This resource includes both general and higher level tips for improving writing skills. The authors have included a chart offering clear words or phrases as alternatives to wordy expressions. At a general level, exercises in this document focus on logical flow and transition words. Higher level exercises focus on effective writing and preparing memos.

All of these tip sheets are tools that can be used to help support skills upgrading at work and in everyday life. Visit the NALD Library to access the entire series online. Additional supports are located on the OLES website under the headings Assessment Tools and Training Supports.

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