17 Mar Reaching new learners
In December last year, the Hotline was excited to launch its new publication, Engaging Adult Literacy Learners: A Literature Review authored by Jo Medlin. The Literature Review is the first part of a project looking at how we as literacy policy makers and practitioners can more effectively reach adults in the community experiencing literacy challenges. The project came about in response to calls we received from providers asking us for advice on how to reach people in the community, especially those from an English speaking background. A discussion paper will be released in May which builds on the Literature Review with insights from students and staff.
The Literature Review explores what is known about potential literacy learners and the multiple barriers they experience. It seeks to understand why adults engage in literacy learning and the factors which can overcome barriers to engagement. These were identified in the literature as being:
- Ongoing information campaigns
- Using a ‘hook’
- Place-based services
- Partnerships between education services and organisations
- Stable funding, long-term program continuity and flexible monitoring and reporting requirements
- Supported outreach staff
- Links to programs that are perceived as worthwhile, characterised by:
- Education that meets real needs
- Culturally safe spaces
- Inclusion of wrap-around services.
Check out the Literature Review on the Hotline’s website and keep an eye out for the Discussion Paper.