Learning numeracy on the job: A case study of chemical handling and spraying
Authors:
Gail FitzSimons, Susan Mlcek, Oksana Hull, Claire Wright
Publication date:
4 November 2005
Publication type:
Research report
Themes:
Teaching and learning > Literacy/numeracy > General
Industry and employers > Specific industries > Agriculture, forestry and fishing
Industry and employers > Specific industries > Cultural and recreational services
Industry and employers > Specific industries > Transport and storage
Industry and employers > Specific occupations > Gardening, farming and fishing
Industry and employers > Specific occupations > Sales assistants and storepersons
ISBN:
1 921169 12 5 print; 1 921169 18 4 web
Ensuring that people have the appropriate level of numeracy skills is particularly important in jobs which involve a risk to public safety and the environment. This research investigates the job-related numeracy requirements in the chemical spraying and handling operations of the horticulture, local government, outdoor recreation and warehousing industries. Findings from this study indicate that the worksite influences both the type of numeracy skills needed as well as how they are deployed. Numeracy in the workplace differs from formal, rule-based abstract mathematics taught in school and requires training that is relevant to the specific applications of the skill. Implications for the future practice of teaching numeracy on the job are offered and highlight the need to consciously develop critical thinking, learning-to-learn, planning and problem-solving skills in workers.
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