What We Do

We work with practitioners (instructors, tutors, assistants, specialists), learners, administrators and funders. We use participatory approaches in developing research proposals, conducting research projects, and organizing knowledge dissemination events. We strive to demystify the language of literacy, essential skills and foundational learning in policy and practice. We honour diversity by paying attention to people, places, cultures, languages and equitable access to learning.

Guided by the following principles and areas of activities the Adult Literacy Research Institute assists Bow Valley College in achieving its Foundational Learning Vision and Goals.

Principles

• We listen a lot
  Identify needs in adult literacy education is the starting point for innovation and research.
• We believe learners are experts of their own learning experience
  Learners experience and knowledge guide our research priorities and activities.
• We engage and support the Research in Practice approach
  Research in Practice acknowledges the expertise of practitioners and commits to building research skills among practitioners.
• We create more impact by working together
  All projects are created in collaboration with adult literacy stakeholders.
• We are committed to sharing knowledge and expertise
  Information is shared widely and learning events are created frequently.

Areas of Research Activities

• Knowledge Dissemination
  Provide and support pathways to disseminate knowledge gained through initiatives and projects.
• Community Collaboration
  As a community member, we contribute to building community capacity for adult literacy.
• Assessment & Evaluation
  Develop multiple forms of assessment tools and evaluation methods ‘for, and of’ learning.
• Professional Development and Training
  Support professional development and training for practitioners.
• Program Design
  Promote innovation in program development and delivery.