Using easy-to-read maps, this report shows the wide discrepancy of literacy between those with and without disabilities.

The authors have used a Geographic Information System (GIS) to prepare maps that illustrate a variety of data about the relationship between literacy and disability in Canada. For instance, there are maps that show participation in the labour force by people with disabilities and by people with low literacy skills; income levels correlated with literacy skills and with disabilities; and the distribution of the population with disabilities by province and territory.

The authors note that this spatial look at social issues can provide useful tools for the development of policy and services.

The authors have provided difficult-to-locate statistical data. They point out that their work has shown that persons with disabilities face obstacles to full participation in Canadian society, adding that the evidence suggests it is easier for people with disabilities or with literacy problems to live an inclusive life in British Columbia and Alberta than in other areas of Canada.

To order a copy of “Landscape of Literacy and Disability in Canada”, please go the Canadian Abilities Foundation Online Store: http://www.beanstreamcarts.com/stores/abilities/group.asp?groupid=5863&c=0.