Ontario is not alone in relying on volunteers in the assessment process. An Internet search using Google (http://www.google.com) resulted in 3,380 matches for the phrase “Volunteer Literacy Tutor Job Description.” A review of job descriptions from across the world showed that virtually all literacy programs ask their volunteers to be involved in assessment to some degree.

There is no one, typical literacy program in the province of Ontario. When reading this manual, you may see scenarios that are similar or completely different from what you are used to. Assessment is the common thread — there are many ways to do it but it is always done.

Learning involves knowledge and understanding. So assessment involves answering the question: “What do the learners already know and understand, and what do they need to know and understand?”

Learning involves skills and strategies. So assessment involves answering the question: “What can the learners already do, and what do they need to be able to do?”

Learning involves attitudes and values. So assessment involves answering the question: “What do the learners think and feel and believe about what they are learning, and about themselves as learners?”(6)