Findings of this research have resulted in the following programming recommendations in the form of a “Learning Disabilities Focused Literacy Model.” This programming is part of Phase II of Strategies for Success that will be undertaken by LITERACYWORKS commencing in the fall of 2003 if approved by the NLS.
This programming will be directed at enhancing the success of adult learners with learning disabilities in the province and should be comprised of two parts.
The first part is to incorporate into the learning disabilities focused programming a diagnostic screening/assessment service to literacy practitioners.
The second part is to incorporate a service that will provide information about specialized learning strategies to students, practitioners and tutors.
This two-part learning disabilities focused programming model should be tested with learners with learning disabilities from a representative sampling of adult literacy programs across the province.
Feedback from participating practitioners, tutors and other experts in the field of adult literacy, as well as adult learners themselves, should be used to steer the refinement and development of the “Learning Disabilities Focused Literacy Model.” This ongoing process of effectiveness evaluation and continuous adjustments will demonstrate that professional development in all aspects of this programming model is in progress.
The ongoing benefits to programs, practitioners and learners will be evaluated to determine if sustainability and expansion of the model would meet the needs of practitioners and learners not currently being met in the province.
The recommended programming model is well in line with recommendations made by the Manitoba Task Force on Literacy appointed by the Minister of Education, in 1988. The mandate of this Task Force was to determine the magnitude of the literacy issue among affected groups and to recommend a strategy for continuous programming in literacy to meet the needs of Manitobans.
Several of the recommendations outlined by the Task Force are addressed in the proposed model such as: