The strength within

Individuals are not always given the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and abilities or have the confidence to make their dreams a reality.

Just how adult literacy educators can support individuals in reaching their potential is the focus of Working from strengths: Venturing towards strength-based adult education by Peter Waterhouse and Crina Virgona.

Developed for practitioners, this resource introduces adult literacy educators to the principles of strength-based practice, a technique more commonly used in the health and welfare sectors. It concentrates on the strengths, capacities and aspirations of individuals and uses them as a catalyst for change and growth. These values are similar to those that underpin adult learning principles, although strength-based practice puts more emphasis on viewing the individual as the expert, and on cultivating their culture, preferences, world view and autonomy.

Adult literacy educators will find this a valuable resource. It provides practical examples of key processes and techniques, as well as information about where to access additional strength-based practice resources.

Working from strengths: Venturing towards strength-based adult education is available at
www.ncver.edu.au/publications/1956.html