Hello everyone, I just finished reading Maria Caratini-Prado's posting and
something caught my eye that I think is a wonderful and replicable best
practice.  Maria, you mentioned that you use demographics information to
identify areas of need and then drive through the areas to meet with directors
and managers, disseminating your college's program information as appropriate.
I think this sounds like an amazingly proactive approach to building capacity
and meeting needs. Thank you for sharing your information and this best
practice. Sincerely, Priscilla Carman



>

At Eastfield College, I use census demographics information and city

>statistical information to learn where in the area there is marked density of

>non-English language speakers.  I drive through those areas and meet with

>directors or managers to talk about what I see.  (I do this every summer

>in early July.)  I have a document that shows the different programs and

>courses my college offers and emphasize that those courses can be adapted to

>fit industry.

>

>-What needs to happen at the initial meeting between a company/employer and a

>workplace ESL provider?  I like to provide a "mini-college fair" at

>the company.  Once I am in the door, I feel that the first person I need to

>speak to is the one needing the language because in significant numbers, the

>employees will clamor for the company to offer ESL.  I also provide my

>customary presentation to the CEO, managers, etc. and provide a sample of what

>a Business Industry ESL class is like.

>

>


Priscilla Carman
Literacy Specialist
Institute for the Study of Adult Literacy
Penn State University
208F Rackley Building
University Park, PA 16802
PH: 814-865-1049   FX: 814-863-6108


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