Adult Literacy Summer Program
Landmark East School, Wolfville, Nova Scotia

by Grant Fedora, Adult Literacy Coordinator

“I thought the (Adult Literacy) program was excellent. I found it very effective. I found I picked up a lot in all areas.” This comment was made by an adult student who participated in the Summer Adult Literacy Program at Landmark East.

Founded by a grant from the National Literacy Secretariat, Landmark East School conducted a six week Adult Literacy Program from July 7th to August 15th, 1997. The pilot program was designed to assist adults with suspected learning difficulties in the areas of reading, writing, mathematics, study skills, vocational guidance, and computer skills. Included in the program were psycho-educational and vocational assessments. At the end of the program, a summary evaluation with suggestions for further community follow-up activities was provided to the students.

In terms of both student evaluations and standardized measures, the Adult Literacy Summer Program was a success. One student in the program made the following remarks about their involvement: “ I wish I could continue. I have seen a great improvement in such a short time.” Another student commented: “For reading, spelling, and writing, one needs more time to improve skills. Six weeks is not enough. I see it as a life long job, I can improve each day.”

The positive feedback from the students is supported by standardized testing results provided by Dr. Emily Freeman of Educational Consulting Services. Dr. Freeman conducted pre- and post- testing in the areas of basic reading, reading comprehension, spelling, written expression, math reasoning, and numerical operations. The following graph shows the average gains made during the six week program in the seven areas measured.

The summer program was a rewarding experience for all involved. There are several possible reasons for this success. While Landmark East’s programs are designed on a per individual basis, all programs reflect a consistent philosophy and methodology. The reinforcement effect through six classes no doubt contributed to the significant growth students reported experiencing.

The importance of a “community spirit” that quickly developed cannot be overestimated as a causative agent for the progress noted. The boarding setting by its very nature seems to have provided students from diverse backgrounds an opportunity to gradually discover a commonality of life and learning experiences.

The individuals involved each made a commitment not only intellectually but also emotionally by the fact that each left his/her home to come to school. Students who participated in the summer program said: “Landmark East School is for people who want to improve their work skills and work studies. The school caters to a person’s needs and the teachers take interest in each and every person’s needs. I would recommend that anyone come to this school as it is held in high regard by me.” and “We all come to learn and that we did - thank you...I need more time.”

The 1998 Summer Adult Literacy Program was held from July 6th to August 15th with boarding facilities available. For students without financial support, basic tuition, assessment and boarding costs are covered by a grant from the National Literacy Secretariat.

* You can reach Grant Fedora at Landmark East School,
Tel. 902 542 2237 Fax 902 542 4147
landmark@auracom.com
http://www.valleyweb.com/landmarkeast/