Ontario Skills Passport – Skills and work habits for the workplace

http://skills.edu.gov.on.ca

“I really enjoyed producing my final project. Filming and editing a video (www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ia9d-H7iSio) to reflect on and share my experiences in work, school and life was a great way for me to express myself and have fun with a project, using the tools and skills I chose to develop, rather than doing the sometimes repetitive school work I am used to. Growing up, I had trouble retaining information that I had just read, and I realized that I learn better visually, so I was very excited to present my project visually, not only to represent how I learn best, but also to appeal to those like myself who either learn best visually or hands on. As an added bonus for my hard work, I also discovered that my video project counted for a few lessons toward my co-op credits. In my Essential Skills project, I was asked to complete reading and writing tasks that I would actually be required to perform in my field of work, graphic art. This was a good way for me to build my skills and also know what to expect in the workplace.” Brock Terriah

“As a teacher participating in the Ministry of Education's Curriculum-Essential Skills Linkages Field Test, I have developed Essential Skills–based units for the courses English 4C and English 4U. The first is an inquiry unit in which students use the OSP to explore and practise the English-related Essential Skills of their “dream job.” In the English 4U course, students assume the identity of a literary character and explore the university preparation process from that character's perspective. This work engages students because it requires them to acknowledge their personal interests and goals, and makes clear how they can apply their learning beyond the classroom.” Jeff Ballantyne

“As a second-year co-op student studying early childhood education, I have used the OSP to look critically at the development of the most important Essential Skills and work habits needed in this occupation. After looking at my completed work plan from last year, I was able to identify the Essential Skills I still need to develop. In addition, the OSP has allowed me to continue to set goals at my current placement as an educational assistant in all-day kindergarten. Using my work plan from last year as a reference, I can continue working on increasing my Essential Skill levels in the most important task areas of this occupation.” Komal Desai

“I really enjoyed learning all about the Essential Skills in my Grade 10 career studies class. Now I know what I need to know to be successful in my future career, and that there are different levels to which I can develop my skills. These skills are a great tool for everyone, whether they are already working or still in school. I would say that Essential Skills are an essential part of any career.” Meaghan Duggan

“I used the OSP website for general office clerk, medical clerk, and medical receptionist. I liked the website because it was helpful and gave me a lot of information I needed. This is the kind of employment that I'm looking for in the near future.” Debbie

“I have used the OSP website to learn about a variety of occupations. I find the activities very worthwhile and helpful to students in developing a clear understanding of the skills involved in different occupations. By completing authentic workplace materials, students are exposed to real-life activities. This makes their decision regarding what employment opportunities to consider a little easier.” Sandy Coghlin, Literacy and Basic Skills instructor

“Last year, I completed a co-op placement as a security guard and realized that it was not a career I wanted to pursue. This year, I have chosen to work in a restaurant as a cook. The OSP has given me the chance to look at the transferability of my Essential Skills from one occupation to another, in particular my oral communication skills. It has also helped me to focus on my new career direction, becoming a cook, and has allowed me to identify the specific skills and work habits that I need to develop to become a successful chef in the future.” Thomas Taylor

Boris Chan is a software engineering grad, mobile technology developer and lead musician with indie rock band The Eatons.

Learn More

• Ontario Skills Passport