Page 123 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 03 11/20/02 11:46 AM Page 112
112 The Creative Training Idea Book
Provide materials and instructions in writing as you communicate verbally.
Use diagrams, charts, posters, clip charts, and other types of graphic and visual images
when possible. These help maximize the participant’s acquisition of information.
Consider having someone take notes for the participant or give him or her a copy of
your leader guide so that he or she can focus on discussion and conversation instead
of having to look down.
Repeat any question or comment from other participants to ensure that the hearing
impaired participant got it.
When reading certain material is required, allow plenty of time before speaking again.
Get the participant’s attention before you do start speaking.

PUTTING YOUR BRAIN TO WORK: ACTIVITY

Think of your own training environment. Then, answer these questions.
What other strategies can you think of that might assist someone with a hearing loss to maximize a learning
experience?

What specific aspects of your program and the learning environment might you have to modify in order to
accommodate a participant with a hearing impairment?

Mobility Disabilities
Millions of people have various forms of motion (e.g., multiple sclerosis, muscular dys-
trophy, and cerebral palsy) or mobility impairments (e.g., spinal cord injuries, arthritis,
or amputations). Each of these disabilities can create pain and loss of the ability to
navigate or move easily or at all. To assist in providing access to participants with these
impairments, you should become aware of their causes, symptoms, and strategies for
accommodating.

Training Strategies for Improved Effectiveness
Ask the participant what accommodations might increase his or her learning effec-
tiveness.
Focus on the participant’s abilities and be positive about his or her accomplishments,
not on disabilities.
Allow them to find seating wherever they are most comfortable and can have the max-
imum mobility (e.g., near exits, restrooms, or aisles).