The “Field” of Literacy Practitioners:
It’s a Muddy One

As part of the consultation, we sought to explore what is meant by “the field” of literacy practitioners in BC – and to get a sense of whether there are any common aspirations among them in terms of “best practices” and professional development. Specifically, based on the outcomes of the Literacy Practitioners’ and Learners’ Visioning Conference and the outcomes of the Workforce Literacy Practitioners’ Telephone Survey, we explored:

• how practitioners define their field of work;

• who they feel should be responsible for delivering literacy programming;

• whether they have a shared view of “best practices and principles”;

• what kinds of professional development opportunities they have, or would like to have; and

• whether they believe there should be standardized training for literacy practitioners.

The So-Called “Field”…

“The literacy field is diverse, across different communities, programs, colleges, and community organizations. This richness is a strength. However, little will be achieved without overcoming the fragmentation within the literacy field. Competition among persons and organizations directly concerned with literacy diminish what can be accomplished together. Without a coherent, strong voice for change, little action will be achieved.” – Report on Literacy Practitioner and Learner Visioning Conference

“(The literacy field is comprised of) anyone teaching or learning basic skills (reading, writing, spelling, math) at below a Grade 12 level, and where the student is over 18.” – Participant in the Workforce Literacy Practitioner Survey

“Any perspectives involved with literacy—including students, tutors, educators, administrators planners, counselors, community organizations, workplaces, governments, education institutions – (should be considered part of the field). It would encompass: fostering and promoting literacy and the continuation of learning; raising awareness; research; development and delivery of programs; support, advocacy…” – Participant in the Workforce Literacy Practitioner Survey

• In a survey of workforce literacy practitioners, we asked: “How would you define “the literacy field”? Who all and what all does it encompass?” We heard at least two sets of responses. The first was narrow and very concise in its description:
  
  • The field is comprised of those with an ABE background. Literacy is a discreet skill set achieved through a sequential learning process.