3.1: Profile client in terms of ICT competence and learning goals

Table of Contents

1. Establishing client competence in use of hardware and software
2. Using learning packages
   1. Establishing learning goals
   2. Determining learning goals
   3. Additional factors
3. The UK education and training system
4. Ascertaining special needs
5. Types of special needs
6. Sources of careers information

Using learning packages

One important question to ask is whether the client wishes to use the chosen learning package in the library, using the library's equipment, or whether they would prefer to take the package away for home use.

If the latter, it is vital that you establish the specification of their home computer. While many home users possess high specification equipment, others may have older, slower models which will not support the latest packages. This can be a particular problem where graphics or audio is involved.

All learning packages will state clearly the minimum specification on which the application will run and you should ask the client to confirm that their home equipment meets or exceeds this.

It is good practice to make a written record of what you have established about the client's ICT competence. Some libraries have checklists for this purpose.

Find out if your library service has checklists of this nature. If not, why not create one for yourself and your colleagues to use?

Now let's have a look at Determining the client's learning goals ...