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“I feel much more confident because of this project. Before, I was shy and scared to talk to people. Now, I can talk to customers in the training café and help them with things. I also know how to use the library by myself.”- Learner
This project helped adults with Down Syndrome develop their literacy and digital literacy skills in an immersive way. Learners engaged in real-life situations in their communities and built their confidence and independence.
The project took place in Meitheal 21, The Source Arts Centre, and Thurles and Cashel Libraries throughout 2024. 15 learners took part in the programme.
Participants took part in established programmes, such as Down Syndrome Ireland’s Book Club and digital literacy training. The Source Arts Centre’s training café was used as a learning space to enhance group work skills in a practical setting.
Drama and speech and language therapy were integrated into the programme. This provided a learning experience that supported both verbal and non-verbal communication.
Participants used their new skills by running a Christmas pop-up café. This allowed them to demonstrate their teamwork, customer service, and communication abilities.
A dedicated Book Club was established, and participants gained confidence using the BorrowBox app and using library resources independently.
Learners greatly improved their digital literacy and communication skills through hands-on, real-life learning experiences.
The project was special because it provided training on the specific literacy needs of adults with Down Syndrome. The aim of this is to ensure long-term support for the learners.
A strong relationship between library services and The Source Arts Centre ensures continued support for individuals with Down Syndrome.
The project empowered participants to use literacy and digital skills with confidence in everyday situations. It also enhanced their independence and engagement in the wider community.
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This project was a collaboration between Down Syndrome Tipperary, Tipperary ETB, the Source Arts Centre, and Thurles Library.
For more information about the project, please contact Ester Mackey, Regional Literacy Coordinator in Tipperary ETB, at emackey@tipperaryetb.ie
The Adult Literacy for Life Collaboration and Innovation Fund
The Collaboration and Innovation Fund supports projects for adults with unmet literacy, numeracy and digital literacy needs and projects that support organisations to be literacy friendly. The closing date for 2024 applications has now passed but keep an eye out for information on our 2025 fund which will be launched in December.
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