Podcast Series for Instructor Training

Violence and trauma can have an impact on learning, shaping how individuals process information, engage in educational settings, and view their own potential. In this episode, we will explore how understanding these impacts can help create more compassionate and supportive learning environments, where educators and learners can navigate challenges together and unlock opportunities for growth and resilience. 

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.

I would like to welcome back Jenny Horsman, with whom we had  an in depth  conversation about the impact of violence and trauma on learning in our first podcast. Today 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.

This episode will explore a very important topic that many Literacy and Basic Skills staff  feel is crucial in an adult learning journey: that is the initial conversation. Initial conversation sets the tone,  helps to build the foundation of trust, motivation and understanding.

In this episode, we're diving into the topic that may be unfamiliar to many instructors. The experience of working in a penal institution, it can be an incredibly rewarding and impactful role. But what's it really like to teach inside the walls of a correctional facility? What are the rewards of working in this setting? And what challenges do literacy instructors face and how do they address them? 

In this episode, we sit down with Yashin Blake, a celebrated literacy instructor and published author, and Judy Perry, an experienced educator with over 25 years in the field, to explore the foundational elements of creating an engaging and supportive learning environment. Tune in and be inspired by their passion and insights!

Today, we’re diving into the often-overlooked world of math anxiety in adult literacy programs, exploring why math feels like an insurmountable challenge for so many adults, and how we can break down the barriers to learning and confidence. To help us unpack this very common reaction to math are 2 experienced teachers who have worked with learners helping them to overcome their fear of math.

In this episode, we're going to be reflecting on small groups and adult literacy programs and how important they are because it's a combination of effective communication, empathy and structured teaching approach. We will ask two experienced adult literacy practitioners to reflect on the incredible value of writing groups in adult literacy classes. We'll hear how these groups not only build writing confidence but also create connections to ourselves and the world we live in.  It will include a process to create and facilitate a success writing group which offers a supportive community where learners can grow, share and learn from each other

Structured Reading-Part 3: Fluency, Vocabulary and Comprehension Strategies

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. 

Whether you're an educator or a volunteer; we're diving into a topic that's crucial for success: creating a learning plan for adult learners in literacy programs.  Learning isn't just about gaining knowledge. It's about building confidence, achieving personal goals and empowering change in their lives. So why is having a personalized learning plan so important? And how can we make sure it's effective? In this episode we'll explore the benefits of a well-crafted learning plan. The strategies for tailoring it to each individual and how it helps adult learners stay motivated and on track.

In this 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.

In our podcast today, we will be speaking with some key individuals involved in a project called the Progressive Molded Products or PMP. The PMP Workers Action Center and Workers Adult Learning Center developed a groundbreaking approach that combined basic skills training with job search and support services. It showcased successful cross-sectoral partnerships and effective referral processes. 

In today's episode we're going to explore through conversation an important topic in the world of literacy and learning: the power of referrals. While a number of our past episodes have actually touched on the needs for referrals, especially at the intake stage, in today's conversation, we'll take a closer look at these connections that play a critical role throughout the entire learning process. 

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.

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.

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

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. 

Upcoming podcast