In a knowledge economy, lifelong learning is the key to employability. However, effective lifelong learning doesn’t always occur spontaneously. LEAP aims to help individuals develop the attitude, skills, and community support systems to pursue lifelong learning. It fosters the conditions by which participants can develop their own capacity to pursue their goals - no matter what socio-economic conditions or challenges they may face as individuals or within a community.

In the case of rural and remote communities, this first entails removing significant barriers to the access of lifelong learning, such as:

• Geographic distance (lack of access to training locations)
• Real-life responsibilities (lack of access to flexible learning arrangements)
• Individual motivation (lack of access to stimuli for pursuing learning)

Our project is about developing a model to address these challenges. It uses Resource Networks (such as community learning centres, regional associations, and organizational umbrella networks) to overcome distance. It uses Self-Directed Learning for building appropriate life skills (such as managing time, communicating effectively, and using technology) and developing personalized plans for managing learning within the context of other responsibilities. And it uses Coaching and Mentoring to develop individual motivation to pursue learning through a process of personal visioning and self-awareness.

Participants in the LEAP Program are able to take advantage of these types of support to explore self-employment (in its broadest sense) through the creation of micro-enterprises, the development of community projects, or the continuation of their learning through other distance providers.

The program’s success to date has been built on different forms of leadership from the following types of groups:

• Institutions – to provide access to training locations and services
• Community Networks – to contribute support for relevant lifelong learning projects and programs
• Local Community Organizations – to promote the training within the community
• Individual leaders – to ensure that initiatives move forward and stay on track

The LEAP Program has provided an excellent demonstration of how these four sources of leadership can collaborate in the delivery of innovative services and training to rural and remote communities.

Learn more about the LEAP concept:

The Gap in Employability Training in Canada