Generic – overview
The resources here underpin and reinforce the central messages of the whole website. 'Getting it right for the learner' is about learning that:
- is relevant and challenging for them
- addresses their individual needs through differentiation and 'personalises' the learning experience
- attends to their safety and well-being; and
- develops characteristics of the 'expert learner'.
Tutors and others need to keep in mind the possible literacy, language and numeracy (LLN) needs of their learners. If you are newly engaging with Skills for Life, a useful general starting point is www.dfes.gov.uk/readwriteplus/, which you can explore as required:
New browser window: www.dfes.gov.uk/readwriteplus/
The section on teaching and learning gives a brief overview of the Skills for Life agenda. If you are already involved in Skills for Life, you may find it useful to receive the regular updates from the site. In the 'Policy drivers' section of this website you will find Skills for Life guidance to teachers.
Key principles of adult learning
Key principles of Adult Learning
Appreciation of the key principles will enable tutors to adapt and shape their teaching and learning to the needs of their adult learners.
Differentiation
Differentiation
The activities in this resource show tutors how they can 'personalise' learning and meet the individual needs of their learners in a variety of ways.
Active learning
Active learning
Tutors can assess the degree to which they themselves are taking the lead in each session compared with the extent their learners are actively involved — and then make appropriate adjustments in the balance.
Assessment
Assessment practice
Activities on initial, formative and summative assessment, and defining achievement, will help tutors develop their assessment practice.
Course planning and design
Course planning and design
Through this resource, tutors will discover how to enhance their course design and session planning skills so that they fully meet the needs and aspirations of their learners.