Adult learners returning to study face a range of barriers, but deaf students may find it particularly difficult to access learning opportunities. This article describes the lessons learned from a teaching a beginners' IT course targeted at deaf adults, lessons which can be applied across the board, no matter the subject being taught, when it comes to teaching basic skills to adult deaf learners.

The key factors in organising a successful course are to have strong links with the target community and time to plan and prepare thoroughly before the course starts. You may be fortunate enough to have access to an Information Advice and Guidance worker for the deaf community.

Publicising the course

Publicity materials aimed at this group of learners need to be clear and simple and avoid jargon at all costs. For instance:

• Deaf learners may not be familiar with terms such as 'IT', 'budgeting' and 'spreadsheets'. Think about simpler alternatives such as 'learn how to use your computer' and 'managing your money'. Remember the acronym KISS - keep it simple, stupid. If in doubt get a colleague to check publicity for readability.
  
  
• Think about how learners can make contact with the organisation. Publicity should include a Typetalk number, fax number and/or a mobile phone number for texting.
  
  
• Individual learners may be eligible for help with transport costs, such as taxi fares, from the Access Fund. If possible have this information available before the course starts. Make sure any forms are as clear and as simple to fill in as possible and provide help if needed.

The Access fund, also known as the Hardship Fund, is money provided by the Learning and Skills Council for learners with disabilities. Access Funds can be used to cover the costs of taking part in a course, including transport, books, equipment and childcare costs among others. Learners apply for Access Funds direct from their learning provider. You can find out more details about the Access Fund at http://www.lsc.gov.uk/.

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