Finally, they need to know how to use texts for particular purposes. Similarly, older children, adolescents and adults need a range of skills to ensure that their literacy competencies are continually improving to meet their changing needs. These are currently met through a number of programs. TAFE Colleges, community based providers and private training providers all offer services. Specific literacy programs are offered with voluntary tutors, in small groups.
People can work on self-paced programs from home with some assistance.
Literacy and numeracy can be learned in conjunction with vocational training or on the job in workplaces. Literacy and numeracy can also be learned by the unemployed as they prepare themselves to find work and learn new vocational skills. Through a national research program we also need to continually monitor both the literacy practices of the community and the forms of instruction that are offered to ensure we are doing our best and using pubic funding effectively and efficiently. Furthermore, a compulsory element has been introduced into this program which may have a counter effect to the one intended. The funding from the Commonwealth to the states and territories for vocational education is forcing greater productivity.