On reading Karen's posting about the WOA project, thought I'd better tell you about an Action Research Project that I am managing through a successful bid to LSN (Learning and Skills Network) Small in comparison to the WOA bid!
The project title is "Managing Enablers in Learning" and the brief is as follows:-

The aim is to support tutors in formalising their role in managing carers who act as learning enablers in the classroom.
The objectives are to:-
Improve the quality of learning experience for the learner
Motivate care workers to better understand their classroom role
Motivate tutors to understand their role in managing enablers Improve the relationship between Care Sector and Learning Provider

Action research is a term, which refers to a practical way of looking at your own work to check that it is as you would like it to be. Because action research is done by you, the practitioner, it is often referred to as practitioner based research, and because it involves you thinking about and reflecting on your own work, it can also be called a form of self reflective practice.

The idea of self reflection is central. Traditional research looks at the actions of others, in action research, researchers do research on themselves and it will be shown in the final report the processes that they have gone through in order to achieve a better understanding of themselves, so that they can continue to develop themselves and their work.

If you would like to find out more about Action Research please look at “Action Research for Professional Development – Concise Advise for New Action Researchers”
Jean McNiff 2002

I am having my first briefing with tutors from The National Star College and Artshape on Wednesday 19th March.

I will keep everyone posted as to the outcomes of this project which will include the development of some training materials for carers who accompany ALDD learners into the classroom, to support the care staff in their learning enabler role.

Any comments gratefully received.