I would like to contribute to the discussion on attendance and focus on Shannie's program which is geared towards women, is in a secure environment, and provides transportation and child care. She is wondering what can be done to increase attendance over and beyond these issues. One aspect that needs to be considered is domestic violence. Fortunately, this is not an issue for all female learners, but it is an issue for too many. If a partner or family member is not supportive of the learner increasing skills, or is suspicious of the learner being part of a public activity on a regular basis, transportation and child care cannot address these obstacles.
Daphne