Metro Toronto Movement for Literacy

06/04/2026

06/03/2026

Building strong AI literacy in adult literacy programs is essential to equity, inclusion, and learner autonomy in a rapidly changing digital world. MTML's AI in Literacy: A Learning Toolkit was created to give instructors clear, practical ways to understand AI, use it critically, and integrate it thoughtfully into instruction and program design.

Featured in Perfectio 2026: https://www.coalition.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Perfectio-2026_ENG_screen.pdf, the article on page 29 traces this toolkit from initial curiosity about ChatGPT through research, consultation with networks, piloting with programs, and iterative feedback to a fully accessible resource aligned with UNESCO’s AI competency framework for teachers. We are grateful to the (COFA) for recognizing and sharing this toolkit as a valuable contribution to the adult literacy field and for supporting its translation and dissemination across Francophone communities.

06/02/2026

Last week at MTML’s AI Community of Practice, Gabriela C Zapata led a thoughtful and engaging session that sparked meaningful conversation across the group.

The session explored how AI is showing up in adult literacy and community-based education both as a tool for increasing access and as a space that requires careful, critical engagement. Key themes included using AI to support content creation and learner engagement, understanding its limitations and biases, and the importance of building AI literacy alongside digital literacy skills.

What stood out most was the discussion that followed. Participants reflected on real-world applications, raised important questions about ethics and equity, and shared strategies for integrating AI in ways that remain learner-centered and accessible.

It was encouraging to see such strong interest in not just adopting AI tools, but using them responsibly and thoughtfully in our work.

Looking forward to continuing these conversations and learning together as this space evolves.

06/01/2026

What a wonderful conversation in podcast 2. Episode 2: Play, Curiosity, and Human Strengths in AI Learning, looks at curiosity as a core human strength that drives discovery, innovation, and lifelong learning, and connects it to playful, hands-on approaches inspired by Seymour Papert’s ideas of learning through “hard fun.” https://VoicesShapingTheFutureOfAdultLiteracy.podbean.com/e/play-curiosity-and-human-strengths-in-ai-learning/

In this episode, we explore why play, experimentation, and “hard fun” are powerful ways to learn with AI, not just about it. Episode 2, Play, Curiosity, and Human Strengths in AI Learning, looks at curiosity as a core human strength that drives discovery, innovation, and lifelong learning, and c...

06/01/2026

MTML attended Toronto Newcomer Day on Friday May 29th. The Information Fair is an important part of Toronto Newcomer Day. It gives City divisions and community partners an opportunity to outreach and provide important information on programs and services to newcomer community members.

Toronto Newcomer Day is an annual celebration to officially welcome newcomers to Toronto and acknowledge their many contributions to the city. The one-day event also includes a formal stage program, indoor and outdoor tours and many other activities. For more information on Toronto Newcomer Day, please visit www.toronto.ca/newcomerday.

06/01/2026

AI is already part of everyday life! When people don’t understand how AI works, who controls it, or what happens to their data, it can increase barriers instead of opportunities, especially for adults who already face digital and literacy gaps.

That’s why MTML has developed AI in Literacy: A Learning Toolkit and the AI Literacy Lab. The Toolkit offers plain‑language explanations, activities, and teaching ideas to help adult literacy practitioners build their own AI understanding and bring AI topics into their classrooms in safe, inclusive ways. The AI Literacy Lab complements this by providing a protected, hands‑on space where practitioners (and, in some formats, learners) can practice using AI tools, talk through real scenarios, and build confidence around issues like privacy, bias, and accessibility before using these tools more widely. Acces these tools on MTML's website: https://www.mtml.ca/resources/ai-in-literacy-a-learning-toolkit

The AI Toolkit is designed to help literacy instructors develop their skills and competencies in using AI tools for instructional purposes.

05/27/2026

Adult literacy is more than reading and writing—it is the foundation for participation, dignity, and opportunity in today’s world.

At the Metro Toronto Movement for Literacy (MTML), we know that literacy connects directly to digital inclusion, employment, health, and civic engagement. Yet globally, millions of adults continue to face barriers that limit access to these essential skills.

Our podcast series brings these conversations forward. Through practitioner insights, real-world experiences, and discussions on emerging topics like digital literacy, AI, and equitable access, we aim to support educators, policymakers, and anyone invested in building more inclusive learning systems.

Whether you are working in adult education, exploring innovative teaching practices, or simply want to better understand the challenges and opportunities in this space, these episodes offer practical perspectives grounded in community-based work.

Explore the MTML podcast here: https://www.podbean.com/user-7GoAvbhL1Hyj

Let’s continue to elevate adult literacy as a global priority—because when adults gain skills, communities grow stronger.