Betsy Alkenbrack

This is the final research report of a three-year project, designed to explore ways to think about Literacy and Essential Skills in the context of the workplace, and to develop strategies for actively embedding literacy in the workplace.

This thesis was prepared to fulfil the requirements for a doctor of philosophy degree in educational studies at the University of British Columbia.

This report presents the findings of a research project conducted over a two-year period by Capilano College instructors as part of their work with adults with “high-risk” lifestyles (including drug use, working in the sex trade, living with violent partners and being street-involved) at two learning centres in Vancouver’s downtown east side.

The letters in this booklet describe life, literacy and community development in the new South Africa.