Constituents of the Training Kit

The Training Kit offers building blocks from which trainers can design and build their own workshops according to the training needs of their audiences. The Training Kit includes 15 Modules, each of which is comprised of a set of Units. A Module is a comprehensive collection of training materials related to a specific topic. Each Unit includes a number of Components. A Unit is the content to be covered in a single training session.

Components for Trainers

Module Trainer Notes. This document provides an overview of the Module, the trainees' learning objectives (formulated as learning outcomes) and a short description of the constituent Units. It also provides an indication of the time necessary to deliver all of its Units.

Unit Trainer Notes. This document provides information for trainers on what the Unit is all about, its available components and recommendations on how to deliver the material. The document includes:

• a short introduction;
• the Unit objectives and expected learning outcomes;
• the content outline, main topics covered and suggested sequencing;
• a list of components of the Unit (e.g. exercises, handouts, multimedia, presentations, glossary);
• the expected duration;
• a list of additional trainer resources;
• a list of materials and equipment needed;
• additional suggestions.

Presentations (Microsoft PowerPoint). Slide shows, like all other components, can be modified. Formatting has been limited to a minimum to allow trainers to adapt content, layout and animations. Slides are usually complemented by notes from the subject matter specialists on the Slide Note function of PowerPoint. Presentations usually represent the Handout for Trainee, which is a pivotal document for each Unit. Images on the presentations can be changed and replaced with images from the Training Kit’s picture library.

Exercises. Exercises are designed for the trainer. Each exercise includes information on its objective, timing, materials needed, suggested procedure and tips for the trainers.

Video and picture libraries. The Training Kit includes a video library comprised of interviews, documentaries and educational resources. Each video is presented with a self-explanatory title, a screenshot of the video and a short summary. A picture library offers a choice of images which the trainer can use to complement textual information on slide presentations and handouts. The videos are released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivatives 3.0 (by-nc-nd) Unported License. Pictures are released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 (by-nc-sa) Unported License.

Case studies and examples. Some Units include case studies which are designed to be the basis for brainstorming sessions. They usually include guiding questions that trainers could use.

Evaluation forms. Unit M03U05 of Module M03 specifically deals with training evaluation. A range of evaluation forms can be used at different stages of course implementation. The following forms – among others – should be used during the training workshop, according to the proposed schedule.

Users of this Training Kit are invited to carefully read Unit M03U05 and to make use of the templates for the evaluation forms which can be downloaded as separate documents via the top navigation bar under “key documents”. It is the trainers’ responsibility to adapt these documents to meet specific course and audience requirements.

The Evaluation of Course Materials form should be completed by trainers after using the components of a Unit. Ideally, trainers should complete one form for each Unit after analysing the feedback received from trainees. At the end of the training course, completed forms should be sent to CTA (pgis-tk@cta.int). Feedback from trainers will be used to improve and complement the Training Kit over time.

Components for Trainees

Handouts. Each Unit includes a series of documents which should be given out to the trainees in printed or electronic format, depending on immediacy of use, cost involved and available resources. The handouts include the “Handout for Trainee”, case studies, list of additional resources, glossary, manuals, presentations, published articles and grey literature, official documents and other useful materials.

The Handout for Trainee is a key document of interest to both trainees and trainers. It contains the basic information that trainers need to deliver the Unit and that trainees need to meet its learning outcomes.

The glossary explains key terms used in the Units and Modules.

In some cases, exercises include annexes which are for distribution to the trainees in the course of the exercise.

The Reading Path

The following reading path is recommended for trainers reviewing a Module:

1. Module Trainer Notes
2. Unit Trainer Notes
3. Handout for Trainee
4. Exercises and presentations
5. List of additional resources
6. Complementary handouts
7. Case studies and examples
8. Video library
9. Picture library
10. Evaluation forms

Trainers should consult the Units’, Modules’ or Global glossaries when the need arises.

Use and delivery of the Training Kit

This Training Kit is modular and available in different languages. Its building blocks – the Components – in most cases can be modified and are governed by Creative Common Licenses. Users are free to mix and match Modules, Units and Components. This means that Units and Components of Module MXX can be included in Module MXY and vice versa.

In adapting the Training Kit, organisers should first verify the expected learning outcomes. Learning outcomes are essentially a "road map" which shows trainers and trainees where they are heading – and helps them know when they have arrived. When planning a workshop, organisers should develop the curriculum according to the following principles and conditions:

• training needs, purpose and expected outcome of the workshop;
• the experiential learning cycle;
• learning concepts and perspectives;
• principles of adult education;
• logistical considerations (e.g. timing, venue, facilities, equipment, mobility).

When adapting and further elaborating components of the Training Kit, trainers should:

• use clear, simple language and avoid narrow culture-specific slang and colloquialisms;
• be sensitive to the fact that some trainees may not be fully conversant with the language;
• make sure glossaries include all key terms used;
• keep the Components short and simple.

All these principles and conditions are covered in Module M03: "Fundamentals of Training Delivery and Facilitation". This Module aims to prepare users to function as trainers for PGIS training. Having skills or knowledge does not mean that a person can train others in those skills or impart knowledge and attitudes. Module M03 introduces concepts and principles of training and steps to follow when preparing a training activity. It explains the basics of training; describes tools for assessing training needs and planning and structuring the training; and focuses on training implementation and evaluation.