The Challenge

In the spring of 2020, it became increasingly clear that the Covid pandemic would present substantial and ongoing challenges to LBS/ESU instructors.

The Response

In response to these challenges, Metro Toronto Movement for Literacy (MTML) created the Silver Lining Café, a community of practice aimed at enabling instructors to adapt to the realities of education during a pandemic. Our overarching intent was to enable professional development and inspire confidence in practitioners during this time of unprecedented disruption. The name Silver Lining was chosen to acknowledge the incredible motivation and ingenuity demonstrated by LBS/ESU instructors as they navigated the complexities presented by the pandemic.

MTML created the concept of the Café, but it would not have been possible to deliver this initiative without our partnership with AlphaPlus. Their expertise and support played a key role in ensuring success.

How it happened

MTML Silver Lining Cafe Report

The Resource

The Zoom platform is the most commonly used video conferencing tool used by literacy programs.

We developed a six-part manual on how to use Zoom but our manual is much more than a simple how-to. We include explanations and descriptions of how Silver Lining Café participants use the features and functions of Zoom to enhance learning and make the most of their Zoom meetings with learners. You will find step-by-step instructions on how to activate the features and practitioner tips on how to use these features for learning that provides opportunities for creativity, collaboration and critical thinking.

The Manuals

View at MTML