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CHAPTER 14
Realising the potential of older workers in Scotland 271

Many individuals find their experience of learning associated with the
characteristics outlined in single-loop learning. A continuous cycle of reacting
to life situations often prevails with little or no thought, or time, for learning.
The ʻrealising your potentialʼ methodology adopts the approach proposed by
the double-loop learning model. Through providing a basis for individuals to
reflect on past learning, work and life experiences, and taking time to explore
what they would like to do in the future, meaningful information can be elicited
and an understanding of factors that have affected learning can be identified.

14.6. Realising your potential: a five-stage approach

The ʻrealising your potentialʼ model consists of five stages (Figure 14.5).
Stage 1 encourages individuals, through semi-structured interviews, to
reflect on past learning experiences and identify barriers which
may have existed thus preventing participation in learning earlier
on in life. This personal interaction is a crucial element in the
programme forming trust between the individual and project staff.
Stage 2 offers a bespoke learning programme delivered over a set period
and designed to cover areas all of which are particularly relevant
for individuals who have been disengaged from learning for a
period.

Stage 3 encourages individuals to explore areas of interest, understanding
that they may have always wanted to learn something new, but
never had the time, opportunity or encouragement to do so.

Stage 4 provides an opportunity to evaluate current work ability and future
work potential. Using a self-administered questionnaire, individuals
can identify and assess key barriers that may affect their capacity
to continue in the labour market in the future. These include areas
such as health, education, motivation, family circumstances and
financial challenges.

Stage 5 encourages reflection on the programme and supports progression
into new learning opportunities. The overall aim at this phase is,
by having gone through the process, individuals are confident,
energised and motivated to move on to new opportunities and take
the next step to realising their goals and aspirations.