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Learning — Personal-growth

Everyday Challenges Arise from Literacy Struggles in Daily Activities

Adult struggles with simple tasks in Germany, leading to insecurity, isolation, and a sense of loneliness. However, solutions are available at the Volkshochschule Bergisch Gladbach, providing practical assistance and fresh possibilities. (Paid content)

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Dealing with schedules, menus, and manager's notes can become complex for some adults in Germany,...
Dealing with schedules, menus, and manager's notes can become complex for some adults in Germany, despite their outward appearance of competence. Such tasks can lead to feelings of insecurity, isolation, and withdrawal. However, assistance and fresh outlooks are available at the Volkshochschule Bergisch Gladbach, offering practical help and new opportunities for those in need (Paid contribution).

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Everyday Challenges Arise from Literacy Struggles in Daily Activities

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A jumble of tasks, routines, and written communications can leave even the most accomplished adults perplexed. Such difficulties, though oftentimes hidden, can lead to feelings of uncertainty, isolation, and embarrassment. However, it doesn't have to be this way: The Adult Education Center in Bergisch Gladbach is here to lend a helping hand and unveil new possibilities.This is a paid contribution from VHS Bergisch Gladbach

Meet Melanie, a 54-year-old working in the culinary industry. Her work environment teems with menu plans, schedules, and written directives – all demanding reading and writing skills. Despite managing for some time, her struggle was hard to conceal.

Shedding her apprehensions, she confided in her boss about her issue. Encouraging her, her boss recommended she reach out to the Adult Education Center in Bergisch Gladbach. With courage, Melanie picked up the phone.

"Let's find out together where we can support you"

Patricia Schmidthaber, adult education advisor at VHS Bergisch Gladbach, dedicates time to Melanie: "During an initial consultation, we identify talents that are already there. We'll work together to find where we can offer support."

Patricia Schmidthaber will be available at the market in Bergisch Gladbach on June 18, from 11 AM to 1 PM, to answer any questions and concerns.

Melanie now attends regular basic education courses. The small, welcoming group exudes a trusting atmosphere. She learns practically – for instance, deciphering catering-related terminology and even practicing at home using the free online learning platform "vhs-Lernportal."

"I never imagined that learning could still be enjoyable," shares Melanie today.

What is Basic Education?

Basic education encompasses more than just reading and writing fundamentals. It concerns crucial skills that are essential for professional and personal life: completing forms, taking notes, understanding written content, and regaining self-confidence.

Key Facts:

  • Approximately 6.2 million German-speaking adults (18-64 years old) face challenges in reading and comprehension and are classified as low literate. [1]
  • More than 60% of them hold jobs.

[1] Grotlüschen, A., Buddeberg, K., Dutz, G., Heilmann, L., & Stammer, C. (2019): LEO 2018 - Living with Low Literacy. Press brochure, Hamburg.

Basic Education in Bergisch Gladbach

Adult Education Center Services

  • Telephone Consultation: Consult Patricia Schmidthaber at 0151 722 588 04
  • Open Learning Café in VHS Bergisch Gladbach: Buchmühlenstraße 12, Room 308 Thursdays, 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM (except during school holidays)
  • Basic Education Courses: You can begin whenever you feel ready
  • On June 18, join Patricia Schmidthaber at the market in Bergisch Gladbach from 11 AM to 1 PM to learn more about their programs and services.

To learn more, visit www.vhs-gl.de/kurse/grundbildung

Exploring Further: Deconstructing Basic Education

Basic education generally represents the entry-level stage of education that incorporates primary education (ISCED Level 1) and lower secondary education (ISCED Level 2). These formative years aim to instill a broad understanding of core subjects like mathematics, languages, and sciences to prepare students for future education or work. [2]

[2] International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED): https://uis.unesco.org/isced/docs/isced-1997-rev-2011-user-guide-book-for-collecting-and-reporting-isced-data.pdf

Adult Education: Facilitating Learning and Growth

Adult education centers, like the one in Bergisch Gladbach, typically provide a range of resources and support systems for individuals looking to improve their basic skills. These services may include:

  • Literacy Programs: These are designed to help adults gain or improve their reading and writing abilities, often through personalized instruction and resources.
  • Basic Education Courses: These courses cater to the needs of adult learners, providing a refresher in various subjects such as mathematics, language, and science.
  • Vocational Training: Some centers offer vocational training and workshops that combine basic education with practical skills, empowering adults to attend the workforce or pursue specific careers.
  • Support Services: Additional support, like counseling or educational guidance, may also be made available to assist adults in navigating their educational journey.

For more information about the Adult Education Center in Bergisch Gladbach, contact them directly or visit their official website for details on their available programs and services.

  1. Melanie's life has been improved through educational and personal growth opportunities provided by the Adult Education Center in Bergisch Gladbach, as she now attends regular basic education courses and uses the free online learning platform "vhs-Lernportal" to practice at home.
  2. The Adult Education Center in Bergisch Gladbach offers a variety of services to support personal growth, including basic education courses that go beyond the fundamentals of reading and writing, providing essential skills for professional and personal life.

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