What is Foundational Communication (FC)?
the Foundational Communication (FC) describes the knowledge of language and the thinking processes required to communicate effectively in the workplace.
the FC provides the basis in the language of instruction to enable a learner to deal effectively with occupational training and communication in the workplace. the purpose of this component is to enable individuals to deal confidently and successfully with the language of learning
and teaching (LoLt) of formal occupational training, in relation to oral, reading and writing skills. people who attend an FC learning programme are given practice in speaking, listening, reading and writing meaningfully and effectively in the language of instruction. on completion of the Foundational Communication programme learners will be able to cope with further learning more easily.
Communication in ABEt and at NQF Level 1 is centred around learning how to read whereas the FC may be thought of as using reading to learn. the focus of the Foundational Communication (FC) is to use reading, writing and speaking skills to convey meaning in a logical and orderly fashion. Learners will extract relevant information from a text, infer meaning, make deductions, develop logical arguments, organise thinking and extract key messages from an extended piece of writing.
Foundational Communication consists of:
- Speaking and listening
- visual literacy
- Language structure and usage
- Study skills
- Workplace terminology
The curricula describe the learning outcomes, the scope and contexts
in which these can be learned or practiced, as well as activity guidelines and illustrative exemplars for different skills and tasks. the curriculum documents do not represent actual learning programmes – teachers of the FLC will need to contextualise the learning in relation to the occupational sector or trade of specific learners.
The Foundational Communication carries 20 credits.