PDA Facilitate Inclusive Learning and Working

Course overview

The principal context for this programme is the teaching and learning environment. All candidates should have access to a workplace where evidence to meet the learning outcomes can be generated. The programme has been designed for education and training practitioners who are actively involved in the support of learners and employees.

Whether you are a Learning Support Advisor, Study Support Tutor, Support Coordinator, or Disability Advisor, this programme provides an opportunity for continuing professional development for candidates to develop a critical understanding of the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusiveness in the creation of inclusive learning and working environments.

It introduces you to the concept of developing inclusive teaching and support strategies for individuals through the effective use of assistive technologies and non-technological approaches that advance equality and widen access for all.

Completion of the single unit provides a solid foundation for the double unit and must be completed first to achieve the full PDA.

The (PDA) Award is delivered by Edinburgh College in partnership with College Development Network, using a combination of pre-recorded lectures, lecturer-mediated discussions, web resources, self-study resources and the option of mentored support.

What you will learn

This Professional Development Award (PDA) comprises two units of learning.

Single Unit: Facilitate Inclusive Learning and Working (SCQF level 9):

• Introduction to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
• Understanding Equality Legislation in Context
• Our Role in Equality: Values, Attitudes & Bias
• Sharing Best Practice
• Exploring Accessibility
• Non-technological Solutions
• Exploring Assistive Technologies
• Ergonomic Solutions

Double Unit: Implement Inclusiveness Through Needs-Led Assessment (SCQF level 9):

• Inclusive Needs Assessment Practice
• Understanding Disability Frameworks in Education
• Effective strategies for needs assessment.
• Making Recommendations
• Needs Assessment report writing.
• Evaluating own practice

Placement information

• No placement is included as candidates must already be working in an education and training organisation where evidence to meet the learning outcomes (PDA) can be generated.

How the course is assessed

• Your success in this course is dependent on the timely completion of a range of summative activities and formative assignments. Assignments based on practice, using written/documentary evidence, oral questioning, or professional discussion are required.
• Assessment for the single unit includes an analysis of current practice with a supporting action plan and a presentation. There are also 6 evaluations of technology and non-technological support strategies.
• Assessment for the double unit includes a case study, and 4 needs assessment reports covering 4 different types of needs.

Number of days per week

The PDA course involves the study of a single unit and a double unit delivered online one evening per week using Microsoft Teams.

Entry requirements

Entry to this qualification is at the discretion of the centre although candidates require access to a workplace and to be in a role that involves the support of individuals with the protected characteristic of disability as well as some responsibility for meeting their additional support needs and which provides opportunities to evaluate enabling technologies. Candidates undertaking this qualification would normally be expected to have completed, or be working towards, a relevant qualification at the HNC level or above. Candidates will benefit from having prior experience in using technology to support learning and/or to adapt working practices to meet individual needs although this is not a pre-requisite.

It is essential you agree with your employer on how you will be mentored by an experienced needs assessor for the double unit: needs assessment. A suitable mentor can be arranged by the course tutor for the candidate at an additional cost.

Candidates will already be employed in one of the following capacities:

• Subject lecturer
• Teacher
• Access and inclusion co-ordinator
• Student services manager
• Assistive technologist
• Trainer

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

• No interview is required. Applicants should complete an Edinburgh College Application form.

Progression and Articulation Routes

• This is a Professional Development Award (PDA) designed to meet the development needs of current practitioners who wish to develop a critical understanding of the principles of equality, diversity and inclusiveness in the creation of inclusive learning and working environments.

Career options

Candidates will already be employed in one of the following capacities:

• Subject lecturer
• Teacher
• Access and inclusion co-ordinator
• Student services manager
• Assistive technologist Trainer

Candidates can move on to a person-centered needs assessment role where they can focus on completing contextualised needs assessments working within a practice focused on inclusiveness.