It is estimated that the
literacy skills of 38% of working age Nova Scotians is below a
level required to function in a modern economy. The Dartmouth
Learning Network (DLN) is a not for profit organization that
provides opportunities for adults to improve their literacy
skills, free of charge.
The Rotary Club of Dartmouth has been an active supporter of the
Dartmouth Learning Network since 2006, acting on their Board of
director, guiding programs and through financial help.
In April 2008 as part of, a DLN / Dartmouth Rotary club joint
venture, DLN learners were enrolled in pilot project to use the
Computer Assisted Learning System (CALS) to enhance literacy
skills. The learners worked on the CALS exercises for about six
weeks. The pilot project was set up to test the benefits of the
online phonics program for adult learners and to determine the
requirements for running the project; including staff training
and time, location and equipment, learner willingness and
progress. It was hoped that the experience would allow DLN and
Rotary to gather sufficient information to decide if the project
should be continued and expand the program to include more
learners. The pilot project showed benefits to the learners and
the Club made a donation of $5000 to fund more learners in 2009.
The full program was deemed a success.
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