Quality Enhancement
PDA Facilitate Inclusive Learning and Working
Campus OL - Open Learning/Cross Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 9
Study mode Part time
Duration 51 weeks
Start date
Mar 2023
Course enquiry form
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 in order 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 of the PDA can be generated
How the course is assessed
Assessment for the single unit includes an analysis of current practice with a supporting action plan, and a presentation. There is 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 need.
Number of days per week
The course involves the study of a single unit and a double unit delivered online using Microsoft Teams. Delivery will include a “live” session at the start of the unit, early evening for up to 60 minutes and another “live” session at the end of each unit. Pre-recorded sessions and activities will be made available and released on a weekly basis. The single unit includes 12 sessions, and the double unit includes up to 9 sessions.
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 which 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 HNC level or above. Candidates will benefit from having prior experience of 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 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.
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-centred needs assessment role where they can focus on completing contextualised needs assessments working within a practice focused on inclusiveness.
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| OL - Open Learning/Cross Campus | Part time | 07/03/23 | 51 Weeks |
