Evaluation

The evaluation process is divided into several steps based on the training objectives, which are identified in each programme description and readjusted via the comparative analysis of country reports at the beginning of the training programme. Programmes are also monitored by means of course meetings, which take place under the guidance of a group leader at the end of each training unit (usually every two or three days).

Weekly Review

Intermediate evaluations (usually weekly reviews) are carried out during the development of the course in order to assess if the various components of the programme are contributing to the achievement of course objectives.

End of Course Evaluation

The "immediate objectives" of the course are evaluated via participants' self-assessment (questionnaire) and via the trainers' assessments of work-plans presented by course participants in the final course activity. The Centre has also developed a centralised system for the evaluation of training activities with the introduction of benchmarks and the possibility of comparing results between different programmes.

Post-Course Evaluation

One year after the completion of the programmes, post-course questionnaires are sent to participants to evaluate long-term objectives. This document is aimed at identifying the outcome of each individual work-plan prepared at the Centre. This post-course evaluation is also aimed at assessing the contribution of workers' education to the development of training programmes/materials and management principles within workers' education departments of the trade unions.

Follow-up Seminars

Seven follow-up activities were delivered in 2004. The seminars analysed the impact of the Turin-based programme in terms of project development and assessment of the long-term objectives of the Programme. ACTRAV colleagues in charge of workers' activities in the field were also involved in the follow up activities for integrating the regional work of ACTRAV with the Turin based programme.

The follow-up and evaluation seminars were therefore aimed at an appreciation of the extent to which the trade union organizations represented at the seminar have adopted and implemented the participants' work plans in their operations. ACTRAV training activities' evaluation (field and Turin) assessed the impact of training in relation with the development/strengthening of the staff of those workers' organizations and affiliated unions. In addition those seminars assessed new training needs and discussed new approaches in the area of training such as the introduction of information technologies in workers' education.