Edmonton Community Adult Learning Association (ECALA)

Teaching Strategies for a Multi-Level English as Another Language Classroom
2025-04-14 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Edmonton)
Teaching Strategies for a Multi-Level English as Another Language Classroom
Date: Monday, April 14, 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Virtual, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitator: Emily Albertsen
Many English as Another Language (EAL) instructors in Canada teach multiple levels in the same class. It can be challenging to meet the diverse needs of multi-level learners. In this virtual, interactive presentation, we will explore strategies for effective teaching in a multi-level classroom while maintaining your sanity as an instructor. We will discuss:

Diverse learning needs: reading, writing, listening, speaking, learning styles, literacy needs
How to manage: planning and tracking
How to make your life a little easier: strategies for differentiating learning with the same lesson plan
Working together: teaching strategies and learning activities for cross-level groupings
Working separately: teaching strategies and learning activities for same-level groupings
Supporting outliers: learners who need extra help or extra challenge
Advocacy: supporting instructors so that we can support learners

The presentation will focus on teaching and will give practical, immediate strategies for working in multi-level classes. There will be time for discussion and questions.

Annual Report Writing
2025-05-08 13:00 - 15:00
Annual Report Writing
Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
Time: 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Where: Virtual, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Debbie Clark, Marnie Rempel Friesen
This session will walk through ECALA’s 2024-2025 Annual Report, which is due July 11, 2025. Come with questions and examples to share with other participants. As a reminder, this session will focus on the Microsoft Word & Excel documents to be submitted and review the SharePoint File process.
This session is only for ECALA-funded agencies.

ECALA Spring Community Conversation
2025-05-23 08:30 - 23:30
ECALA Spring Community Conversation
Date: Friday, May 23, 2025
Time: Networking 8:30 am to 9:00 am, Community Conversation 9:00 am to 11:30 am
Where: Virtual, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Debbie Clark
Join new and experienced agency staff in conversations and updates on the following topics:

Advanced Education Update
Professional Development Update
Grant Update and Grant Expectations
Community Conversation – No Vacancy

This session is only for ECALA-funded agencies.

One Step at a Time – How to improve mental health through exercise
2025-05-30 11:45 - 13:00
One Step at a Time – How to improve mental health through exercise
Date: Friday, May 30, 2025
Time:

11:45 am to 12:00 pm Check-In
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Workshop
1:00 pm to 1:15 pm Check-Out

Where: Virtual, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitator: Laura Gall, BPE, MACP, Registered Psychologist with extensive experience in health and well-being support.
ECALA is wrapping up our Wellness series by welcoming back Laura Gall. Laura’s session in Coping Tools for Educators and Adult Learners was so well-received that we felt compelled to honour the requests to bring her back to close our Wellness series. Other presenters in our wellness series will also attend, so we can close the session by celebrating the important milestone of making our wellness a priority.
We know there is a psychological component to exercise that makes us feel good. So why do some of us find it challenging to set exercise or fitness goals? Laura will share information on:

How is exercise connected to our overall well-being?
Strategies to incorporate exercise into achievable goals.
Strategies you can incorporate into your adult learning classes.

Participants will have an opportunity to share the exercise strategies that work well for them. For those who have attended all of the wellness series sessions, you will move one step closer to meeting your wellness goals.

Understanding the Medicine Wheel
2025-06-04 11:30 - 15:30
Understanding the Medicine Wheel
Date: Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Time:

Lunch 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Workshop 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm

Where: The Center for Family Literacy, 14535 118 Ave NW #202, Edmonton, AB T5L 2M7, Canada
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Elder Leona Carter
The Medicine Wheel teaches us about Indigenous philosophies to live in balance and harmony. Elder Leona Carter will share with us the Medicine Wheel Teaching, which includes the:

four directions,
cycles of life,
seasons,
main medicines,
elements and more.

The Medicine Wheel is a foundation to health and well-being
Please note that space is limited. If you’re interested in registering, and the registration is closed, please email Chelséa at pdcoordinator@ecala.org, and they will add you to the waitlist.

Blanket Exercise
2025-06-26 12:30 - 15:00
Blanket Exercise
Date: Thursday, June 26, 2025
Time: 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm

12:30 pm to 1:00 pm Lunch
1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Blanket Exercise

Where: The Center for Family Literacy,
14535 118 Ave NW #202, Edmonton, AB T5L 2M7, Canada
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Michelle Nieviadomy, REACH Edmonton
The KAIROS Blanket Exercise is a workshop that explores the nation-to-nation relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. Blankets arranged on the floor represent land and participants are invited to step into the roles of First Nations, Inuit and later Métis peoples. The workshop helps people to understand how the colonization of this land impacts those who were here long before settlers arrived. It engages people’s minds and hearts in understanding why the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples is often broken and how we can take an action together.
Please note that space is limited. If you’re interested in registering, and the registration is closed, please email Chelséa at pdcoordinator@ecala.org, and they will add you to the waitlist.

ECALA AGM
2025-09-17 18:00 - 19:00
ECALA AGM
Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Where: Virtual, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Join ECALA-funded agencies and participate in our Annual General Meeting.

The Agenda and meeting materials outlined in the ECALA Bylaws will be sent to registrants at the end of August.

Bridging Learners to the Workplace Using Authentic Materials Series
2025-10-23 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-30 12:00 - 13:00
Bridging Learners to the Workplace Using Authentic Materials Series
Date:

Part 1: Thursday, October 23, 2025
Part 2: Thursday, October 30, 2025

Time: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
Where: Virtual, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitator: Sue Oguchi
Getting a job is often high on the priority list for our English Language Learners, and our goal is to prepare them for that as best as we can. This two-part workshop will make the case for using authentic documents in the classroom and demonstrate how it can be successfully done. The facilitator will also share some of the best materials that combine language learning, skill building and Canadian workplace cultural tips that are available to use in your classes.

Plan, Create, and Adapt Lessons Using ChatGPT
2025-11-14 12:00 - 13:00
Plan, Create, and Adapt Lessons Using ChatGPT
Date: Friday, November 14, 2025
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 pm pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Leanne Adegbonmire
Discover how the newest version of ChatGPT can elevate your lesson planning from start to finish. In this hands-on session, you’ll explore how to co-create lessons using AI that can now analyze images, generate custom activities, build rubrics, and adapt materials to different learner levels. See how ChatGPT can streamline your workflow—drafting objectives, outlines, and assessments—while keeping lessons creative and learner-centered. Whether you’re planning literacy, digital skills, or ESL lessons, this session will show you practical, time-saving ways to plan with AI.

ECALA Fall 2025 Community Conversations
2025-11-28 08:30 - 11:00
ECALA Fall 2025 Community Conversations
Date: Friday, November 28, 2025
Time:

Networking 8:30 am – 9:00 am
Community Conversation 9:00 am – 11:00 am

Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitator: Debbie Clark, Executive Director, ECALA
Join new and experienced agency staff in networking and conversations on the following topics:

Networking
Advanced Education CALP Grant Update
Professional Development Update
Community Conversation, Edmonton Adult Literacy Priorities

Nervous System Balancing: Meditation and Setting Mindful Goals
2025-12-03 12:00 - 13:00
Nervous System Balancing: Meditation and Setting Mindful Goals
Date: Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Ella Ruth Bilodeau, (she/her), YRS 200
Join us for a rejuvenating session designed to help you pause, reset, and realign. In this 60-minute session, we’ll explore how mindfulness and nervous system awareness can support balance, focus, and well-being at work and beyond. This is your time—there’s no right or wrong way to participate. You can eat your lunch, keep your camera off, or simply listen and notice.
First 30 minutes – Theory & Practice
Discover how mindfulness and goal setting can help you move from reactivity to regulation. We’ll explore simple tools for grounding and focus, along with strategies to set mindful goals that align with your values and energy.
Last 30 minutes – Restorative Nidra Meditation
End the session with a guided Yoga Nidra (meditation or also known as “yogic sleep”) designed to restore your nervous system and deepen your sense of calm and clarity. This practice invites rest and renewal—leaving you refreshed and better equipped to lead and learn.
Bring: A comfortable place to sit or lie down and an open mind for reflection and rest. Optional to have some sort of shawl, sweater or blanket.

Outcome, Measurement and Evaluation for Leadership
2025-12-04 13:30 - 15:00
Outcome, Measurement and Evaluation for Leadership
Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025
Time: 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Leanne Adegbonmire and Marnie Rempel Freisen
Come find out about the new requirements for data collection this funding year. This session is of interest to anyone who oversees learning opportunities and manages data collection and reporting. This training is for ECALA-funded agencies.
Please note this training is only for ECALA-Funded Agencies.

Plan, Create, and Adapt Lessons Using ChatGPT (Repeat)
2026-01-09 12:00 - 13:00
Plan, Create, and Adapt Lessons Using ChatGPT (Repeat)
Date: Friday, January 9, 2026
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Leanne Adegbonmire
Discover how the newest version of ChatGPT can elevate your lesson planning from start to finish. In this hands-on session, you’ll explore how to co-create lessons using AI that can now analyze images, generate custom activities, build rubrics, and adapt materials to different learner levels. See how ChatGPT can streamline your workflow—drafting objectives, outlines, and assessments—while keeping lessons creative and learner-centered. Whether you’re planning literacy, digital skills, or ESL lessons, this session will show you practical, time-saving ways to plan with AI.
Please note: This lunch and learn is a repeat of the November 14, 2025 workshop. The same material will be covered in this session.

Creating an Engaging Learning Environment: The 6Ps of Lesson Planning
2026-01-16 13:00 - 15:00
Creating an Engaging Learning Environment: The 6Ps of Lesson Planning
Date: Friday, January 16, 2026
Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Leanne Adegbonmire and Marnie Rempel Friesen
This workshop focuses on the 6Ps: Propose, Prepare, Present, Practice, Perform, and Ponder. You will be introduced to a structured approach to planning lessons for classes, or for guiding a group through new learning to action. In this session, you will learn about the importance of:

Proposing doable outcomes,
Preparing your learners for the content to come,
Presenting new content in a timely fashion,
Providing practice time to reinforce learning,
Supporting your learners to use their learning in real-life situations (perform), and finally
Guiding your learners through thoughtful pondering about their learning journey.

Perfect for facilitators looking to refine their approach and deepen their impact in any group setting

CALP Logic Model Community Conversation
2026-01-30 09:00 - 11:00
CALP Logic Model Community Conversation
Date: Friday, January 30, 2026
Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am
Where: In person, Centre for Family Literacy

Address: 14535 118 Ave NW #202, Edmonton, AB T5L 2M7, Canada
Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FobD3vb5tfJkwAT16

Registration: Click here
Facilitator: Debbie Clark, Executive Director, ECALA
Debbie will host a facilitated grant recipient conversation related to the recent changes in data collection:

That was then…this is now – historical logic model changes
CALP Case for Support
Understanding the new details required for Volunteer and Paid staff indicators
Logic Model suggestions for the 2026-2027 review
Next steps

You do not want to miss this Community Conversation! ECALA is providing opportunities for grant recipient agencies to participate in a conversation related to current changes to the CALP Logic Model, and future changes coming in 2026-2027. It is recommended that each agency register at b to participate who is familiar with the CALP Logic Model or program evaluation. Participation in this workshop is limited to ECALA Grant Recipient agencies.

Colbourne Institute eCourse Registration
2026-02-04 00:00 - 2026-03-11 17:00
Colbourne Institute eCourse
Registration Dates: Wednesday, February 4, 2026 – Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Where: Online, through NorQuest
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Colbourne Institute eCourse
ECALA is partnering with the Colbourne Institute, associated with NorQuest College, to provide the Introduction to Anti-racism and Introduction to Inclusion eCourses free of charge to ECALA-funded agencies. Each agency can access up to 4 eCourse registrations. Please complete the registration form if you would like to participate in either or both eCourses. Registration closes on March 11, 2026
For more information on the courses, click on the links below:

Introduction to Anti-racism
Introduction to Inclusion

Please note:

This training is only for ECALA-funded agencies.
In order to receive your digital badge and certificate, you must complete the eCourse and evaluation form.
You will receive information and access directly from NorQuest by the end of March.
You must complete the eCourse before Friday, May 29.

Teaching Strategies for a Diverse, Multi-Level Classroom
2026-02-04 12:00 - 13:00
Teaching Strategies for a Diverse, Multi-Level Classroom
Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm -1:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Emily Albertsen
Many EAL instructors in Canada find themselves teaching different levels in the same class. It can be challenging to meet the diverse needs of multi-level learners. In this virtual, interactive workshop, we will explore strategies for effective teaching in a multi-level classroom while maintaining your sanity as an instructor.

EAL Literacy Learners in Mainstream Classes
2026-02-11 12:00 - 13:00
Teaching Strategies for a Diverse, Multi-Level Classroom
Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm -1:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Emily Albertsen
When there are no dedicated literacy classes available, EAL literacy learners are often placed in levels with non-literacy peers. This creates a multi-level learning environment where the instructor is simultaneously teaching literacy and language skills and strategies to learners with a wide range of educational backgrounds. In this online workshop, we will explore approaches to meeting the needs of literacy learners in mixed-level classes.

Effective Learning Materials
2026-02-18 12:00 - 13:00
Effective Learning Materials
Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm -1:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Emily Albertsen
This online workshop focuses on effective learning materials. We will discuss what to look for in good learning resources and consider language level, literacy level, digital literacy, visual literacy, and trauma-aware practice. We’ll also discuss creating your own materials with and without the use of AI.

Filling in your Outcome, Measurement, and Evaluation Information
2026-02-20 10:00 - 12:00
Filling in your Outcome, Measurement, and Evaluation Information
Date: Friday, February 20, 2026
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Leanne Adegbonmire, Marnie Rempel Friesen, ECALA
Are you required to collect learner information (Intake, Attendance, Progress Forms, etc.)? Are you filling in the Outcome, Measurement, and Evaluation (OME) information for your agency this year? Join ECALA’s Grant Liaisons to learn how to fill in the tables, find out about the new measures we need to collect for 2025-2026, and ask questions. This training is for ECALA-funded agencies.
Please note: This training is only for ECALA-funded agencies.

Alberta Reading Benchmarks
2026-03-05 12:00 - 13:00
Alberta Reading Benchmarks
Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm -1:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Rebecca Still, CLN Literacy Specialist
Are you wondering what to do to help a learner to read? Or what is the best way to teach reading? Wouldn’t it be great if there was a guide to follow that would let you know what the learner needs to work on and what comes next once they have learned it? Good news! There is a guide called Alberta Reading Benchmarks.

Bring your lunch and join Rebecca Still, CLN Literacy Specialist, to learn about the different levels of reading and how to use the Alberta Reading Benchmarks as a guide in planning for learning.

Using Authentic Materials Above Reading Level
2026-03-13 12:00 - 13:00
Using Authentic Materials Above Reading Level
Date: Friday, March 13, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm -1:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Rebecca Still, CLN Literacy Specialist

An adult learner has brought in some material from work and tells you they need to read and understand it next week. You look at the material and know there are many words the learner isn’t reading yet. How do you help a learner read and understand the material in a short period of time?

Bring your lunch and join Rebecca Still, CLN Literacy Specialist, to learn how to support adults to read and understand authentic material that is above their reading ability, and how this material can be used to teach reading skills a learner is working on.

Storytelling Part 1: Honouring Learner Voice: Ethical Storytelling in Literacy Education
2026-03-25 12:00 - 13:00
Storytelling Part 1: Honouring Learner Voice: Ethical Storytelling in Literacy Education
Date: Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm -1:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Leanne Adegbonmire and Ella Ruth Bilodeau, ECALA
In this session, you will examine ethical, learner-centred approaches to storytelling that support accountability and responsible representation. We’ll explore consent, power, and strengths-based framing when sharing learner experiences for public communication and reporting. You will leave with clear decision-making guidelines to ensure learner stories protect dignity, align with organizational values, and support transparent communication with funders and community stakeholders.

Workplace Wellness: Desk Yoga
2026-03-26 12:00 - 12:30
Workplace Wellness: Desk Yoga
Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm -12:30 pm, If you wish to join earlier, feel free to log on anytime after 11:45 am.
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitator: Ella Ruth Bilodeau (she/her), 200 RYT

In this interactive workshop, adult educators will explore simple and effective desk yoga techniques designed to promote mindfulness, reduce stress, and improve physical well-being while working in classrooms and office environments. With an emphasis on balance, relaxation, and self-care, this session will teach participants yoga postures and breathing exercises that can be seamlessly incorporated into their daily routines. Through a series of easy-to-follow practices, you will discover ways to release tension, improve posture, and stay focused during your workday.
Please note that the March 26 workshop is a repeat of the March 17 workshop. You’re welcome to attend both if you would like.

Storytelling Part 2: From Experience to Story: Planning and Scripting Impact Videos
2026-04-08 12:00 - 13:00
Storytelling Part 2: From Experience to Story: Planning and Scripting Impact Videos
Date: Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm -1:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Leanne Adegbonmire and Ella Ruth Bilodeau, ECALA
This session is about telling a learner’s impact story for a short video. You will learn how to choose one clear learner experience and shape it into a simple story. The focus is on what changed, why it matters, and how to say it clearly. You will practice creating a short script or outline that is respectful, easy to record, and useful for sharing impact with funders, partners, and the community.

Storytelling Part 3: Making the Video: Recording and Editing Learner Stories
2026-04-22 12:00 - 13:00
Storytelling Part 3: Making the Video: Recording and Editing Learner Stories
Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm -1:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitators: Leanne Adegbonmire and Ella Ruth Bilodeau, ECALA
This session is about making the video. You will learn how to record a learner story using a phone and how to do simple edits. The focus is on helping learners feel comfortable and respected while being recorded. You will learn basic tips for clear sound, steady video, and short clips that are easy to edit. The goal is a simple, honest video that can be shared to show learner impact.

Understanding and Mitigating Bias
2026-04-22 18:00 - 19:30
Understanding and Mitigating Bias
Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitator: Steven Lin, Centre for Race and Culture

Taking an intersectional approach, this workshop will help participants build their understanding of bias and practice steps that can be taken to limit the impact of unconscious biases on our decisions and behaviours. Participants will enhance their self-awareness of their own biases, build understanding of their social conditioning, and reflect on the most common forms of biases that appear in the workplace. Through interactive exercises, participants will identify their biases and assumptions and learn practical tools that they can use to mitigate biases at the personal and organizational levels.

Caring Without Carrying It All: Sustainable Boundaries
2026-04-23 12:00 - 13:00
Caring Without Carrying It All: Sustainable Boundaries
Date: Thursday, April 23, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitator: Ella Ruth Bilodeau (she/her), ECALA

In helping professions and people-centered workplaces, caring deeply is often part of the job. However, without clear boundaries and sustainable self-care practices, that care can slowly turn into exhaustion, overwhelm, and fatigue. In this workshop, we will explore how to maintain empathy without burnout. Participants will learn how to recognize early signs of compassion fatigue, establish practical and healthy boundaries, and develop strategies to protect their energy while continuing to show up with care. Blending reflection, discussion, and gentle grounding practices, this session provides realistic, workplace-friendly tools that can be added to your wellness toolbox.
Participants will learn:

What compassion fatigue is and how stress and emotional labor impact well-being
Techniques to transition from high-emotion interactions back to baseline
Micro-practices for emotional reset between tasks
How to recognize when to pause, delegate, or seek support

Bridging the Intercultural Gap
2026-04-29 18:00 - 19:30
Bridging the Intercultural Gap
Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Where: Online, Zoom
Registration: Click here
Facilitator: Steven Lin, Centre for Race and Culture

This workshop will examine the concept of culture, the effect culture has on one’s personal and professional life, as well as the role that our cultural norms and expectations play in our interactions with others. It will equip the participants with practical tools to reflect on their programs and services, apply strategies to challenge cultural bias and discrimination, practice intercultural communication to create a more inclusive workplace where colleagues and clients from different cultural backgrounds feel valued and respected.
