Understanding and Promoting Access for People with Learning Difficulties by Seale Jane;Nind Melanie;

Author:Seale, Jane;Nind, Melanie;
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Group
Published: 2011-02-01T00:00:00+00:00

Conclusion: keeping it going

The Forum believes that its research work has just begun. In settings across the UK and beyond there are numerous specific technical issues that are untested and which can only be answered by engaging with people with learning difficulties (Rix 2005). The Forum firmly believe that a consultation process can fill this gap, and should be undertaken whenever new interpretation is designed and made for heritage sites. However, one group of 25 people cannot do it all. Heritage sites have to consider how they can best attract the attention of this population, and convince them that their views are valued.

Throughout this project the Forum expressed its satisfaction at having its work identified, showcased and appreciated. It recognised the importance of being involved in a process based on trust, respect and a commitment to produce high quality work. Given that the work of people with learning difficulties is so often sidelined, this is hardly surprising, but it would have a positive impact on any researcher’s motivation. The Forum has also shown that this research process is one that can be replicated in many different settings with relative ease: views can be gathered through visual questionnaires, observation, discussion in the moment, discussion retrospectively, drawing pictures and writing labels. The research has demonstrated the value of brainstorming activities, taking photographs, recording with video and using postcards of artefacts and bringing artefacts to individuals. As researchers, Forum members have attended workshops, held regular meetings, participated in discussions and interviews and completed questionnaires with supporters. They have demonstrated that the approaches that heritage sites are familiar with, work with them too.

The Heritage Forum in Liverpool and Merseyside wishes to continue its work. Each site and each exhibition present new challenges and opportunities that can usefully be assessed by people with learning difficulties. The Forum wants other groups to follow their example too, and begin evaluating provision where they live. Hopefully this simple but effective process can gain the interest of heritage sites and funders across the country; if it does, then many more individuals from this vital part of our community will see a place for themselves within our heritage provision and will come to believe that it represents a vital part of themselves.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.