English as a Second Language (ESL) programs are vital for helping newcomers navigate life in Canada and are a critical aspect of successful workplace integration. Within Alberta, there are various programs that support thousands of learners by helping them develop and improve their English language skills so they can find gainful employment and contribute to their communities. ESL programs range from semi-casual conversation clubs and one-on-one tutoring led by volunteers to full-length courses and weekly English classes taught by certified Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) instructors. They are run in various locations, such as post-secondary schools, community organizations, and faith-based institutions in both large urban centers and small rural towns to ensure accessibility to anyone in the community who could benefit from their services. While each organization has its own needs and challenges, unique learners, and different levels of capacity, they are all equally important to the community, the workforce, and Alberta’s newcomers.
Skills for Success and ESL
In the ESL sector, the Skills for Success model is steadily gaining momentum and instructors are increasingly interested in learning how to incorporate the methodology into instruction. However, its use has not yet been systematized and little is known about the extent to which ESL instructors and organizations are familiar with the model or the extent to which incorporating it could benefit learners.
To dig deeper into this issue, AWES and long-time research partner, Social Research and Demonstration Corporation (SRDC), will be researching the sector and exploring whether a unified curriculum that incorporates Skills for Success methodology is feasible.
The project at a glance
An environmental scan of the landscape of ESL programming in the province will be conducted to map out the range of programs offered and the materials and resources used for instruction. This background research will form the foundation of the project and help us identify the training needs, practices, and methodologies of ESL instructors, and get information about the degree to which Skills for Success are integrated in ESL curriculum.
Over the next several months, AWES and SRDC will be connecting with instructors and program administrators throughout the province by distributing surveys, conducting interviews, and hosting focus groups. We will be gauging instructors’ knowledge of Skills for Success, its place within ESL instruction, and their perception of its importance for English-language learners when entering the labour market. These conversations will give us a deeper look at how individual instructors and organizations deliver programs, which will ultimately provide better insight into the feasibility of a unified ESL curriculum that incorporates Skills for Success methodology in Alberta.
This is an exciting opportunity for ESL instructors across the province to share their experiences and explore the future of the sector! Stay tuned for updates and more information about how you can contribute.