Appendix F: Essential Employability Skills

Essential Employability Skills (EES) are skills that, regardless of a student’s program or discipline, are critical for success in the workplace, in day-to-day living, and for lifelong learning.

The Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities requires that all graduates of an Ontario College Certificate, an Ontario College Diploma and an Ontario College Advanced Diploma be able to reliably demonstrate the essential skills required in each of the following six categories.

SKILL CATEGORY	DEFINING SKILLS Skill area to be demonstrated by graduates:	LEARNING OUTCOMES: THE LEVEL OF ACHIEVEMENT REQUIRED BY GRADUATES. The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
Communication	reading writing speaking listening presenting visual literacy	Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfills the purpose and meets the needs of the audience. Respond to written, spoken, or visual messages in a manner that ensures effective communication.
Numeracy	understanding and applying mathematical concepts and reasoning analyzing and using numerical data conceptualizing	Execute mathematical operations accurately.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving	analyzing synthesizing evaluating decision making creative and innovative thinking	Apply a systematic approach to solve problems. Use a variety of thinking skills to anticipate and solve problems.
Information Management	gathering and managing information selecting and using appropriate tools and technology for a task or a project computer literacy internet skills	Locate, select, organize, and document information using appropriate technology and information systems. Analyze, evaluate, and apply relevant information from a variety of sources.
Interpersonal	team work relationship management conflict resolution leadership networking	Show respect for diverse opinions, values, belief systems, and contributions of others. Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.
Personal	managing self managing change and being flexible and adaptable engaging in reflective practices demonstrating personal responsibility	Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects. Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.

Appendix B: Essential Employability Skills, Minister's Binding Policy Directive, Framework for Programs of Instruction, Issued: April 1, 2003, Revised: 31/07/09.