STEP 5 What for? The learning needs assessment
You need to identify the learning needs of the group, so that you can set specific objectives for
the training, as well as general aims (see Step 1 – Why? The aims and objectives of the training).
It may be that the learning needs of a group are too diverse to be covered in one training session.
Learning needs are identified by looking at the gap between what someone already knows, and
what they need to know. This can be done by:
Asking people about their successes and difficulties
Asking people what they want to and need to know about
Asking people what the key issues for care, support and protection of children in their families
and communities are
Filling in a pre-course questionnaire with course participants (see the example below)
Observing people’s activities, skills and competencies
Studying results of surveys, project documents, minutes of meetings and other documents.
It is important that you gather information about a group’s learning needs in good time so that you
can supplement the information contained in this guide to meet the specific needs of your group.
- Name
- Address (for example, village and district)
- Occupation
- Have you attended any child care and protection training courses? (please give brief details)
- Have you attended any training courses of any kind? (please give brief details)
- What do you hope to get out the training for OVC care?
- What are the major problems affecting OVC in your community?
- Do you have any requirements to enable you to participate fully in the training?
Special diet- specify
Facilities, for example, a wheel chair
Help with childcare
Other - specify - Please add any other information or comments you feel are relevant.
EXAMPLE: Pre-course Questionnaire
STEP 5
Guide to Mobilising and Strengthening Community-Led Care for Orphans and Vulnerable Children Unit 2, Facilitator’s Guidelines^65