Literacy Legacy : Training for Instructors

The adult literacy sector has been developed over the years through the work of many dedicated, long-term literacy workers who have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience. We in the adult literacy field, like many sectors, experienced a notable increase in staff turnover during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused many experienced instructors to reflect on their personal and professional lives and for some, it accelerated their plans to retire. As these literacy specialists retire and exit the field, their wealth of knowledge and experience is at risk of being lost. Associated with this loss is the need for responsive training and mentorship programs for new and upcoming practitioners. To partially address this need, MTML has produced a series of 20 podcasts designed to capture the valuable insights and experiences of seasoned professionals. Welcome to The Literacy Legacy Project. Together, we’re excited to bring you a series of podcasts, dedicated to guiding and inspiring those just starting out in the world of literacy instruction. In each episode, we’ll hear from literacy experts who have spent decades in the field, including some who have retired but continue to share their insights and experiences. From effective teaching techniques to building meaningful connections with learners, they will share practical advice, real-world examples, and proven best practices to help you navigate your journey as a literacy instructor. Join us as we honour the legacy of those who have dedicated their lives to literacy. Tune in and learn from the best!” This project has been made possible with funding from the Peter Gzowski Foundation. The Peter Gzowski Foundation for Literacy is a national body that stewards an endowment dedicated to promoting literacy awareness and supporting adult literacy programming across Canada. Special credit to Craig ”Violette” Riddock for pre-production, co-production, co-editing, recording engineering, audio post production.

Episodes

May 7, 2025

43 min

In Part 2, we’ll dive deeper. We’ll hear how each person's journey evolved over time—and what specific elements of their programming and what supports helped keep them motivated, and committed. 

May 7, 2025

43 min

May 2, 2025

37 min

In Part 1, we sat down with four incredible learners who are currently attending—or have attended—Literacy and Basic Skills programs in the Toronto area. We explored the early stages of their literacy journey: how they discovered the programs, their first conversations with LBS staff, the goals they set, and the motivations that inspired them to begin and keep going.

May 2, 2025

37 min

Mar 13, 2025

48 min

Today we're diving into the shift from traditional paper-based systems to the interconnected world of the internet. We'll examine how this transition has transformed our access to information, reshaped our learning practices, and redefined literacy in the internet age. Join us as we shed light on how the internet era is reshaping our approach to knowledge, learning, and literacy. 

Mar 13, 2025

48 min

Mar 3, 2025

32 min

In today's episode we are talking about an essential yet challenging and time-consuming activity in literacy programming: follow up.
 

Mar 3, 2025

32 min

Feb 27, 2025

45 min

Join us in part three of the structured reading series, as we delve into fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension strategies for learners of all ages. Discover practical techniques like repeated reading, echo reading, and the use of graphic organizers to help build strong literacy skills and foster a love of reading.
 

Feb 27, 2025

45 min

Feb 24, 2025

52 min

Today, we're going to be exploring a topic that every educator has encountered at some point: conflict.
Join us as we unpack the causes of these conflicts, explore strategies for resolutions and share insights on how to create a supportive learning environment.
 

Feb 24, 2025

52 min

Feb 21, 2025

40 min

Today we are diving into a fascinating topic that impacts all of us, especially those involved in education, and that is the nervous system. Many of us have heard of "fight or flight," but there's so much more to understand about how our nervous systems react to the world around us and how those reactions influence learning. Jenny will be talking about the nervous system and how it responds to fear and how that understanding can change our approach to instruction and learning. We will also be understanding how the nervous system can help create a more inclusive and effective learning environment.
 

Feb 21, 2025

40 min

Feb 20, 2025

54 min

Whether you're new or experienced, today's episode is all about preparing your learners for the transition to college-level upgrading.
We understand that entering a college environment can be intimidating. It’s not just about knowing the steps; it’s about equipping learners with the confidence and skills they need to succeed.
Join us as we share practical tips and strategies to guide your students through this crucial transition.
 

Feb 20, 2025

54 min

Feb 14, 2025

38 min

In today’s episode, we're exploring the distinction between Indigenous adult literacy programs and general adult literacy programs.
While both aim to enhance literacy skills, the approaches, philosophies, and the cultures they draw upon can be strikingly different. Indigenous adult literacy programs not only focus on reading and writing but also weave in traditional knowledge, language preservation, and a deep connection to cultural heritage. Meanwhile, more mainstream adult literacy programs are often shaped by Western educational models, which may not always resonate with or serve Indigenous learners in the same way.

Feb 14, 2025

38 min

Feb 12, 2025

48 min

 We're very happy to have Patricia Derby back, who is a longtime literacy practitioner and has had over 30 plus years in helping all ages to learn how to read and overcome challenges.

Feb 12, 2025

48 min

Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.

Podcast Powered By Podbean

Version: 20241125