Information from key informants and the review of the literature reveal that there is little research in Canada related to ESL literacy. Some recommended areas for further research include:
Key informants indicated that an organization such as MCL, in partnership with other national, like-minded organizations would have a role in addressing common concerns in the areas that follow. Partnership with national organizations such as TESL Canada and settlement organizations are key to making this work. Partnerships are critically important because MCL is not known in the ESL and settlement worlds. MCL could help bridge this divide and take the first step in recognizing the needs of the diversity of literacy learners as a whole.
Informants noted that there is a great deal of work to be done in building awareness of ESL literacy with policy makers and practitioners. This awareness building includes showing the links between literacy and ESL and the differences between literacy and ESL literacy. MCL and its partners should advocate for an integrated policy platform that addresses gaps for ESL literacy learners and ensures accessible resources and services. This includes ensuring more communication between appropriate provincial ministries as well as communication among the provinces and the federal government. MCL could develop a business case with learner success stories for ESL literacy that could be shared with policymakers. Connections need to be made between literacy learning and skill shortages and the fact that immigrants will be meeting these labour shortages. Developing learners from all over the world as public speakers is also a role that MCL could take on.