Introduction to PIAAC, with a focus on its relevance for English-speaking practitioners in Quebec

This is the first session in a free two-part webinar series hosted by TALQ, featuring consultant and policy expert Brigid Hayes, on the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC). The series is presented as part of the Community Empowerment Literacy Initiative (CELI).

About CELI

Launched in 2021, CELI strengthens the English-speaking community of Quebec (ESCQ). Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and led by Literacy Quebec with the fiduciary support of TALQ, CELI supports community-based literacy and essential skills (LES) providers in Quebec’s English-speaking community. Through funding and professional development activities (including webinars, workshops, and online resources), CELI helps organizations :

• enhance their capacity to deliver LES programs using the Skills For Success framework,
• build sustainable community partnerships, and
• assess the effectiveness of their programs and services. 

Webinar Details

• Topic: Introduction to PIAAC, with a focus on its relevance for English-speaking practitioners in Quebec
  This session will provide an overview of the International Literacy Surveys, highlight present Canadian and Quebec-specific findings, and discuss key takeaways.

• Date & Time: September 25, 11am-12pm ET

• Location: Online via Zoom (free; registration required)

About the Presenter

Brigid Hayes is a consultant specializing in strategic planning and policy development with expertise in workplace literacy, essential skills, partnership development, research, facilitation, and evaluation.

From 2003 to 2006, Brigid was the Director of Labour at the Canadian Labour and Business Centre (CLBC). From 1989 until 2003, Brigid was Program Consultant, National Literacy Secretariat, Human Resources Development Canada responsible for the Business-Labour Partnerships. From 1984, Brigid was a policy officer with the Department of the Secretary of State on issues related to youth, aboriginal people, and voluntary action issues, and from 1987 as Director, Voluntary Action Directorate. Between 1980 and 1984, she consulted in the area of program and policy development with clients from the criminal justice field, women’s organizations, aboriginal women’s organizations, and the voluntary sector. Prior to this, she worked for the Native Women’s Association of Canada and the National Association of Friendship Centres. Brigid serves as chair of the Peter Gzowski Foundation for Literacy since 2019, joining the Board of Directors in 2017. 

Brigid holds an Honours BA in Sociology (University of Western Ontario) and an MA in Canadian Studies (Carleton University).