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How to establish a learning culture

Why?

In order to achieve and sustain continuous improvement in service delivery within the disability sector it is crucial that services establish a 'learning culture.'

The establishment of a 'learning culture' ensures that the disability workforce has the knowledge and skills required to promote innovative approaches that support people with a disability, based on their individual needs and preferences.

How?

A competent workforce is integral to achieving and sustaining continuous improvement within the disability sector. In order for innovative initiatives to succeed it is crucial that services identify the following:

  • The core competencies and training required for all roles in the disability workforce. This should include new roles, such as community strengthening and developing personal networks to enable people with a disability to participate in their communities.
  • The skills required by staff to complete tasks associated with the project or initiative.
  • The 'gaps' in knowledge and skills of disability workers involved in the project or initiative.
  • The amount of managerial/supervisory/coaching support required and available to staff to implement the project or initiative.
  • The learning networks or partnerships supporting the project or initiative.

Outcome

Therefore, projects should clearly demonstrate a flexible and innovative approach to the establishment and implementation of a learning culture that enhances the knowledge and skills of disability workers, enabling them to support the individual needs and preferences of people with a disability leading to continuous improvement and quality service delivery

Further Reading


Monday, October 12, 2009