CTVSD5/Introduction/What

When developing your course consider:
 * The different learners who will participate.
 * How is the knowledge of different learning styles going to be reflected and structured into the course delivery so that your students can be supported to learn?

Considerations

Depending on your actual cohort, and the combination of learner supports required or anticipated, you may need to consider:
 * allocating additional time than originally planned for tasks
 * language supports - referrals, classes, time for explanation, glossaries of common terminology (spelling, pronunciation, meaning – particularly useful if there is a lot of “industry jargon” to be used)
 * patience and tolerance of differences
 * clear explanation of expectations, and confirming understanding
 * clear communication methods
 * technology.

Technology

You are using technology now to learn about this topic. Technology is available to most people around the world in the form of smart phones and using the internet.

The world-wide web was created in 1989, and since that time current users is estimated at 4.7 billion worldwide. Source: Digital Around the World

Is technology a requirement for the study, or expected as a resource support? If so: The world-wide spread of users and uses can be seen here Internet - Our World in Data
 * Does the student have access to technology if it is required?
 * computer
 * internet
 * mobile
 * Are the services stable – e.g., power, internet? If it is not stable, do you have a backup plan or alternative that you can offer?
 * Does the student understand how to use technology?
 * base level – have they used a computer before?
 * how to use it to support study or work
 * can they navigate the internet?
 * do they understand the differences of good or fraudulent websites and how to identify them?

Learning styles

In designing your course consider how do people learn. Different people learn in different ways. The common learning styles are reflected in VARK.

More can be learnt about learning styles by exploring the VARK website. Click on the questionnaire tab and take the VARK questionnaire to find out your own learning style.

Incorporating supports into training design - what does that mean, and how do you do it?
When you consider your learners and individual people, you consider how best to get your information across to help your learners understand the concept theory knowledge or action skill required for the outcome.

Method types

Different needs of your learners will require a different response.

For example, if a learner is hard of hearing you need to ensure you speak clearly, and allow the student to see your facial expressions and lips. If a learner has a visual impairment you can type notes or signs in a larger clear font, instruct them how to enlarge content on their computer or device or provide the required information in a podcast.

Presenting your resources in a variety of methods will also appeal to the different learning styles. Refer to the VARK flashcards for ideas.

Time needs

If your student is challenged by time away from work to continue reading or completing any additional tasks, consider the timing of the tasks. Could the task be done at the start of the day or end of the workday?

Some other suggestions may include:
 * Do you need to write down instructions to support business/study processes?


 * Do you need to change your methods to support learner?


 * Do you allow more time for completion of tasks?

Summary

Learn how to identify your student cohort and what challenges they may bring to the workplace and the learning. What supports may be required to support the student to complete the task. To support a variety of students, understand that different people learn in different ways, and provide multiple methods of learning – VARK – by using various methods to deliver the message.