A survey of the English communications program in Newfoundland and Labrador vocational schools to ascertain the content and the degree of importance placed upon the different components of the program by English communications instructors and members of industry

Coady, John Patrick (1980) A survey of the English communications program in Newfoundland and Labrador vocational schools to ascertain the content and the degree of importance placed upon the different components of the program by English communications instructors and members of industry. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to survey all English Communications instructors in Newfoundland and Labrador Vocational Schools to ascertain what is being taught and the degree of importance placed upon the different components of the English Communications program. The study was also designed to survey members of industry which Newfoundland vocational graduates serve, in order to ascertain how they would rate the components of the English Communications program. -- The data for the study was collected by means of mailed questionnaires on which instructors and members of industry were asked to rate topics as to degree of importance. Instructors were also asked to state the number of hours spent on each topic. -- Mean importance ratings were obtained for each topic and the topics were then classified as being of major, moderate or minor importance. Mean time spent was also obtained for each topic. -- It was concluded that: -- 1. There exists a significant variation in the time spent on the specific topics in the English Communications program by the various vocational school instructors. -- 2. There is considerable variation in the English Communications program among the sixteen vocational schools in the province. -- 3. Members of industry do not perceive all the topics presently offered in the English Communications program to be of major importance to the tradesman. -- 4. As perceived by members of industry, a working knowledge of the fundamentals of the English language is a desirable skill for any tradesman. -- 5. As perceived by members of industry, the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing are necessary skills for the tradesperson. -- 6. Given English Communications instructors and members of industry, there exists a significant difference in the rating of the specific topics as to the degree of importance. -- A number of recommendations were made by the researcher for the improvement of the English Communications program in Newfoundland and Labrador vocational schools. There is, too, the need for further research.

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