The Importance of Negotiation

Negotiation is a process undertaken by the teacher and the learner in order to obtain the outcome. The Negotiation Circle (2009) defines negotiation as ‘the journey of how to get to the destination, not the destination itself’

In the learning environment this could involve the initial assessment of the learners to identify their learning style or the level at which they are working, defining and agreeing targets with the learner and putting into place an action plan.

Before beginning the negotiation process you should have a clear idea of what it is your learners need to achieve, the timescale in which to achieve it and any limitations involved. The targets set should be ‘SMART’; specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely. . ‘...the point of negotiating is to reach agreement...’ (The Gale Group inc. 2002) It is imperative that the learner agrees and is clear on the targets set, they should then be documented and regularly reviewed to monitor progress

Inclusive learning:

Inclusive learning is to ensure that everyone is given the opportunity to learn. The teacher needs to take into consideration the learners’ ability, the different learning styles, ethnic origin and special educational needs, when planning the lesson.

We live in a very diverse society and it is important that teachers have the flexibility to create and present opportunities that are accessible for all learners. It is important to recognise the individual needs of your learners and modify your teaching methods and style; one lesson cannot necessarily be replicated with two different groups of learners. ‘In summary, delivering an inclusive learning package means considering what is appropriate and needed’ (Wilson, 2009, p.173)

As well as the content and delivery of the lesson, the environment should also be considered. The classroom itself needs to accommodate all of your learners comfortably, in order to optimize their learning experience. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (1954) focuses on the basic needs of the learners and states that these should to be met before the learner can enter a state of mind in which to learn.

Integrating Functional Skills:

Functional Skills; English, Maths, ICT are qualifications provided to give the learner the basic skills needed to function independently in everyday life and work, these are sometimes referred to as ‘Skills for Life’. The department for education & skills states that ‘functional skills are practical skills that allow individuals to operate confidently, effectively & independently in life’ (2007)

Although functional skills are now a standalone qualification, these subjects are also integrated into each specialist subject area within FE, in order to develop the skills of the learners. By setting activities that incorporate functional skills the learner will be able to connect basic numeracy, literacy & ICT into situations that occur in their everyday lives.

Functional skills are essential and by embedding them within the curriculum and integrating them into the lesson at every opportunity it can help the learner overcome the fear, they may have, of English or Maths. ‘Sometimes giving something a different label may sidetrack the learner into success’ (Wilson, 2009, p.49)

Communication:

The dictionary definition of communication is: ‘the imparting or exchange of information, ideas or feelings’. Within the learning environment, teaching is based on the ability to communicate effectively.

It is imperative that, as a teacher, you do everything within your capabilities to ensure your learners receive and understand what you have communicated. Petty believes that ‘communication & learning requires that the following chain works perfectly:
What I mean what I say what they hear what they understand’

There are different forms of communication, predominantly verbal and non verbal. Body language is our biggest form of communication; this consists of posture, gesture, eye contact and facial expression. A lot can be gained by observing the body language of the learners as you communicate with them. By identifying subtle changes in the body language you can gauge whether you have the full attention of the learners and whether they understand what you are explaining.

Verbal communication is the words you choose to use and the tone in which you say it. It is important to speak clearly and use language appropriate to the learners you are teaching.

There are also barriers that may need to be overcome when communicating with the learners’, the most obvious one would be cultural, whether it be language or basic cultural differences. However it is also important to consider the physical and emotional barriers that may also be present.