Lesson 2 – Needs according to different handicaps
Lesson 2 in the former chapter showed that disadvantaged young people can have various mental or physical handicaps. These different handicaps have to be considered when planning and preparing a visit of an organic farm.
Disadvantaged youth with physical handicaps have very different practical needs. An important aspect is the providing of “accessibility” and “freedom from barriers”. Examples are hard cover paths and special toilets for wheel chairs users etc.
Beside these physical requirements and needs a special focus should be made on behaviour and communication issues. Teachers, farm guides and farmers have to consider these special communication needs, especially for mentally disabled youth. Explanations and teaching units have to be adapted to the special needs of these target groups. Lectures have to be kept simple, whilst the teaching rhythm must fit with their reception skills and the language and contents should meet their interests and power of concentration.