Research + White Papers
Research
Competency Frameworks and Canada’s Essential Skills
Whether it's new technology or global events driving the pace of change, Canadians are being asked to adapt in the workplace. Canada needs an essential skills framework that includes and looks beyond simple literacy and numeracy. It needs to include the 'soft skills' that industry leaders say are key to success and other essential skills that will help Canadians adapt, no matter what comes their way. Each needs to be measured and tracked to ensure Canadians remain globally competitive, and this paper argues that renewing Canada’s Essentials Skills framework is the place to start.
Research
Technology-Enabled Innovations in the Skills and Employment Ecosystem
This paper outlines places where technology can or is providing innovative approaches to skills training. This includes the assessment of skills, development of skills, and the alignment of supply and demand -- including advancing bias-free recruitment. With real-world examples from around the world, it also reviews how technology can improve access, diversity and workplace inclusivity amongst equity-seeking groups.
Research
Small and Medium-Sized Employers (SMEs): Skills Gaps and Future Skills
Canada’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) account for more than 90 percent of private-sector jobs in Canada. To be competitive in today’s market, they need the right people with the right skills, yet they are disproportionately threatened by labour shortages and skills gaps - a situation made worse by COVID-19. Unlike large corporations, SMEs possess limited resources, making it exponentially more challenging to support these human resources needs. There is a dire need for innovative research & solutions.
Research
Curriculum and Reconciliation: Introducing Indigenous Perspectives into K–12 Science
Curriculum and Reconciliation: Introducing Indigenous Perspectives into K–12 Science briefly and visually outlines the landscape of school science curricula across the country. Several jurisdictions integrate Indigenous content, perspectives, and ways of knowing, while others have yet to include references to Indigenous perspectives.
Research
Economic Equality in a Changing World: Removing Barriers to Employment for Women
Action is needed to alleviate gender barriers. This report summarizes existing research and prevailing issues surrounding gender inequality, including those exacerbated by COVID-19, and points to further research that needs to be done on initiatives to reduce gender inequalities.
Research
Adapting to the Changing World of Work
The 2020 Survey on Employment and Skills explores the perspectives and experiences of Canadians relating to education, skills and employment, including perceptions of job security, the impact of technological change, and the value of different forms of training.
Research
Bridging Generational Divides: Advancing Digital Skills in Canada’s Apprenticeships and Skilled Trades Ecosystem
A digital revolution is coming to the skilled trades. Tradespeople will need a range of new digital skills to keep pace with the future of work. In this report, we look at how Canadian apprenticeship training can adapt to the future of work.
Research
Digital Differences: The impact of automation on the Indigenous economy in Canada
How is technological change, and specifically automation, affecting Indigenous workers in Canada? Digital Differences looks at the impact of automation on the Indigenous economy by industry and region.
Research
Understanding the Nature and Experience of Gig Work in Canada
Gig work & gig workers are on the rise, fueled by technology that makes this form of work more easily accessible. What does this mean for Canada’s labour market and how should we respond? This report explores what we know, and what we need to know, about the nature of Canada’s gig economy and the experiences of its workers.