The Need for Training: A Synthesis of Recent Studies. Report 90-17.

An analysis and summary of 19 recent Canadian and U.S. reports on training needs show that all of them warn that Canada (like North America generally) is facing a serious skills crisis at a time of growing demand for capable workers. In addition, the studies point out that the private sector must contribute much more than it has so far to human resource development. The conclusions drawn from the analysis were intended to guide TVOntario in developing skills programming and a long-term skills plan for all sectors. Six target groups were identified, and their learning needs were categorized according to general literacy, communication, awareness, personal and health issues, management, and human resource issues. Eight specific areas in which TVOntario could become involved to fill gaps or provide alternatives to current skills training were identified: (1) generic skills programming; (2) direct industry-specific teaching; (3) technological awareness; (4) interpersonal skills; (5) public awareness; (6) prevention; (7) programming to provide options and choices; and (8) narrowcast programming (for example, programming directed to women or other special groups). (The report concludes with abstracts of the 19 source documents, citing focus, target groups and needs, key recommendations, ways to implement training, funding schemes, and outcomes.) (KC)