Assessing the needs of learners...

The first part of the teaching and learning cycle is to identify needs of the learners, this can be done in variety of ways, depending on the individuals.

For example:

• Referral Forms; this can be consulted to find out basic information about the person, however this information can be limited as there is only specific boxes and questions to answer.
• If the referral form isn't sufficient information an interview or informal chat can be arranged, this will help to get to know the individual and they will be able to view if they have any specific needs they need addressing.
• Doing a learning styles quiz is a great way to find out what learning style the person is, this will enable me as the tutor to plan the sessions in a way that will engage all my learners.
• Observation of skills; this way the learner can actively show the tutor their knowledge and skills but also the tutor can assess the needs of the individual and see what specific needs they have, if any.    

It is vital that I find out the needs of my learner's, this is so I can: 

• Know their ability Level - this is vital because i wouldn't want to pitch a degree level course to a group of learners that were entry level 3, this would be very dis empowering. 
• Provide extra support - for example if someone had dyslexia i could arrange a time when they could come to see me so that i could provide them extra support, by it being away from the rest of the group they can feel free to voice their concerns or worries to me. 
• See if they have had any previous learning - if they have, the course i am running my not be appropriate for them as they might have to much knowledge and experience to benefit from it. 
• Understand their level of motivation - for example if they have volunteered to go on the course they will be more willing and motivated to take part, however if they have been told to come on the course they may be more reluctant to take part in activities and have less motivation.  
• Know their learning style - this is vital for the tutors to know so that they can plan their sessions, for example if the group learns best visually, they i should tailor my sessions around this. alternately make sure all learning styles are covered.