When a literacy program is providing training for volunteer tutors, staff has to make a choice about how much information to include. There are many, many resources available in the literacy field, and it is impossible to include them all in initial training. Usually, volunteers are introduced to the basics and given an overview of the literacy field along with some instructional techniques. It is also important for tutors to understand what the training plan is and how to use it when planning tutoring sessions. They also need to be familiar with the five levels of literacy learning used in Ontario.

As tutors become more experienced and more comfortable in their role, they might be interested in knowing more about learning outcomes, learning levels or literacy in general. The “Resources” chapter at the end of the manual lists some good starting points for volunteers who would like to learn more.

Literacy program staff should share the learner’s training plan with the volunteer so that everyone is aware of the results of the initial assessment, the learner’s goals and the overall plan to help the learner reach those goals. As the tutor and learner work together and get to know each other, they may discover that the entry-level skills reported on the training plan don’t accurately reflect the learner’s skills. When this happens, the volunteer tutor should contact a staff member to discuss her observations.

It’s important for everyone concerned — learner, volunteer and staff member — to understand that initial assessments are not perfect. They are simply a snapshot of the skills and abilities the learner demonstrated at one particular point in time. Often the learner is nervous during the interview or hasn’t done this type of work for a while. Remember that the tutor and learner will develop a special relationship as they work together. Between them, they will more clearly identify skills and abilities. When tutors and learners share this knowledge with staff members, it encourages teamwork and allows programs to provide a positive and rewarding learning experience.