| FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions) |
A: Literacy refers to one’s ability to read and
write printed materials effectively enough to function in his or her own
environment. The definition of literacy is constantly evolving because
the demands of society, technology, and the workplace are always
growing. Literacy skills are becoming increasingly important for all
areas of society such as getting a job or getting a better job and
reading medicine labels. Even driving oftentimes requires reading skills
that many lack.
A: Although
there are people in the U.S. with extremely low reading and writing
skills, and some with virtually no reading or writing skills, the term illiteracy
is being used less and less to describe low or no skills. We instead
prefer to use the terms literacy and literacy level.
One’s literacy level can include knowledge of vocabulary, word
recognition, and/or comprehension skills. On the other hand, one’s
literacy level might be low, or even zero. Regardless of the
individual’s level of skills, we would describe the student’s
ability in terms of literacy level rather than labeling that student as
“illiterate”.
A: The term ESL stands for
English as a Second Language. Students who are learning English when their first language is
something other than English are often referred to as ESL students or
learners. Classes and materials that teach English to foreign language
speakers can also be referred to as ESL. Other terms commonly used for
this are EFL (English as a Foreign Language) and ESOL (English as a
Second or Other Language). Teachers of ESL are often referred to as TESL,
TESOL, and TEFOL.
A: No. It is possible to teach ESL using all
English materials and instruction. In a classroom setting, this is the
preferred format. It allows an instructor to accommodate students from
all language backgrounds. Tutoring sessions are usually performed in
English as well, although translations and translated materials may be
used when appropriate.
A: Our literacy students are usually from the U.S.
and our ESL students come from all over the world. There are over 40
countries represented through our students at any given time. The
majority of our students are from Central and South America and from
East and Southeast Asia. We also have students from Europe, Africa, and
the Middle East.
A: Ozark
Literacy Council is a non-profit (501C-3) organization funded by
individual contributions, special events, United Way of Washington
County, governmental and private foundation grants.
A: We serve students of all ages, however, we
primarily serve adults. Literacy councils and Adult Education centers
are usually set up with adults in mind because there are so few
resources for adults to get help with literacy and language. Much of the
funding for ESL and literacy is specifically earmarked for adult
instruction. We realize, though, that children who are having trouble at
the early stages of reading instruction can oftentimes grow up to be
adult students with reading trouble. Because of this, we make every
effort to provide resources and services to parents and teachers of
younger students as well. We also try to get PTA’s and other parent,
teacher, and school organizations involved in working together to help
out these students and to make reading an important factor in the home.
A: We provide
instruction for students to improve their literacy skills and to those
studying ESL. We have a weekly schedule of classes and we utilize
volunteers to tutor one-on-one. We also have materials such as
workbooks, audio resources, video resources, reference material and
learning software. In addition to our in-house materials, we also have
access to additional materials as well as training through the
state’s adult learning resource center. We work with community groups
and employers to address various issues concerning literacy and ESL. We
also work with state organizations and agencies to discuss and develop
policies and to standardize curriculum and instruction across the state.
A: Our tutors
are volunteers from the community who give some of their time to meet,
help, and teach students who are developing their literacy and/or
language skills.
A: Volunteers
are provided with training through Ozark Literacy Council before
becoming tutors. Initially, prospective tutors will attend a workshop in
either Literacy Tutor Training or in ESL Tutor Training. These are
3-hour training sessions, which provide information on literacy and ESL,
background on various methodologies, and an introduction to the
materials available for tutoring sessions. Most tutors are eager to
begin, so following this initial training, a tutor is matched with a
student according to scheduling needs, preferences, etc.
Additional
training sessions are then made available throughout the year, which focus
on more specific subject matter pertaining to literacy or ESL
instruction. Roundtables, materials training, and suggested
readings/internet links are made available as well. Tutors are
required to seek out six more hours of these types of additional training
and resources within their first year of tutoring. Staff support is also
available for questions relating to concerns, materials, or ideas about
tutoring.
A: Tutors, upon
completion of the initial training, are asked to meet with their student
twice a week for an hour at a time. This is ideal; however, schedules
can be made for once a week sessions or everyday sessions, depending on
the needs of the student and the needs of the tutor. Scheduling is very
flexible.
We ask for four
months of tutoring from any new tutor but again, length of commitment is
flexible. Most tutors meet with their student for six months to a year.
A: This is a
tough question to answer. It all depends on the students’ level upon
entry to our program, learning rates, and time they spend working on the
material and practicing their new skills.
Generally it could take anywhere from six months to a year or
longer for students to achieve their reading or language goals. For
others, it may be a lifelong struggle.
A: Yes. We are
always looking to expand our class offerings and one of our biggest
impediments is manpower. If you are interested in teaching a class, or
being involved in developing a class to teach, please talk to us.
A:
We are more
than glad to work with your department head, professor, or academic
advisor to provide you with an opportunity to teach for credit.
Internships are also available. Write or call us for more details.
A: We have many
volunteer opportunities available. Please see the Volunteering
page on our website for a list of some of the areas in which help is
always needed. |
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