Explain the importance of inclusive learning in Further Education and/or Adult and Community Learning and the role of the tutor in achieving inclusive learning
...lly to the need for inclusive learning in adult education, stating that there is a duty to, “have regard to the needs of people with learning difficulties” #, and to, “have due regard to promote equality of opportunity between disabled and non-disabled people”. # To help overcome the potential barriers, the learning establishment and the tutors therein must aim to provide the greatest possible match between an individual learners requirements and the provision made. Inclusive learning is an ongoing process and involves providing and acting upon good working practices, regular input and sound planning in a number of areas. Inclusivity must operate at all levels if the individual is to attain equality in the classroom. This point was again made by Barton when he said that, “the belief that learners are valued as individuals and this valuing, is expressed through the culture of the classroom. With these values in place, learners can grow in confidence and ability as they are enabled to maximize their potential”. # Some individuals however may require particular or individual support, others may require special transport or access to information technology and appropriate software. It is important to remember that the requirements will be individual to the learner and a number of factors including the tutor, the learning and teaching methods, and the learning environment itself have crucial roles to play in the process. It is the responsibility of the tutor to make initial assessments of the learners requirements, and this can be done in various ways including interview, one-to-one discussion or the use of equality ice-breakers in lessons. Assessments should continue as the course continues, and these assessments feedback into lesson planning, and thus optimise inclusivity. The tutor should also take whatever steps are necessary to ensure that the environment and teaching methods used also promote inclusivity. Due care given in planning to such matters as classroom access and facilities, to health and safety issues, to IT facilities, to classroom temperature and to seating and classroom layout can all assist an equality of learning, as the individual feels that appropriate consideration of their needs has taken place...