Week 2: Breaking down the barriers to learning
This section of the course aims to give you the chance to:
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examine what a good learning experience is and recognise barriers to learning
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identify and explore issues for non-traditional learners
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look at ways of overcoming barriers to learning
*Workbook: Activity 1, 2 & 3*
We are all different - and we all learn differently
To get your mind in the right place, take 20 minutes to watch this famous TED talk by Sir Ken Robinson, in which he outlines 3 principles crucial for the human mind to flourish:
Adult learning is really important
So, if many adults have gone through an education system that "killed" their interest in learning, is it any surprise that many of us have difficulty with the idea of returning to the classroom as an adult?
As someone who has volunteered as a ULR, you're probably already aware of the many positive benefits of lifelong learning. But despite all the evidence, many adults struggle to take part in learning and development.
What does a good learning experience look like?
Take a look at this video of UNISON members on a British Sign Language course.
It seems like it's been a really positive and valuable learning experience for everyone on the course. Now take a few minutes to have a think about a good learning experience that you've had in the past. This could be from your school days, workplace, an evening class or learning you've done on your own. In activity 2 of your workbook, write down the things that come together to make a positive learning experiences
What barriers prevent people from accessing learning?
Think about what effect a bad learning experience may have on a potential learner. As a ULR you need to be sensitive to feelings that people may bring about the learning but it is not your role to challenge them.
In the first community call for this course you will be discussing barriers to learning with your tutor and the rest of your group.
In preparation for this discussion, please take time to read through the Unionlearn document ""Breaking through the barriers - equal access to learning for all". You can view and download it here
Barriers: Essential Skills needs
Here in Wales,we refer to the reading, writing, number and computer skills that adults need to be able to effectively live, work and learn as Essential Skills. In other parts of the UK they are referred to as Key Skills, Functional Skills or Skills for Life.
The Welsh Government runs an 'Essential Skills in the Workplace' scheme which supports people to get qualifications in the areas of numeracy, literacy and digital skills. The scheme is currently being revised by Welsh Government, however you can still speak to your local college about signing up to get an essential skills qualification. Follow this link for the most up to date information on Essential Skills in the Workplace.
If someone speaks to you with concerns about their essential skills then you could encourage them to use the Wales Essential Skills Toolkit to get an idea of their own skill level.
Remember, if you're unsure about any issue relating to Essential Skills then always refer to your staff development department or local college for help.
How can ULRs help to break down these barriers to learning?
Take a few minutes to have a look at this video. It's all about the award winning partnership approach to learning in the workplace that UNISON ULRs and their employer, the care agency Community Lives Consortium, supported by the Connecting Learners WULF Project, have done to address the Essential Skills and Dyslexia needs of the staff and the people they support.
Barriers: Dyslexia
These two excellent talks by young people with dyslexia address a range of issues and barriers to learning faced by people with dyslexia, and some ideas about how these may be broken down
Please remember that it is not your role as a ULR to offer diagnosis or even to suggest the idea that someone may be dyslexic. If you or someone you know has or thinks they may have dyslexia, there are organisations that are dedicated to offering help, support and guidance.
Check your knowledge