7.1: Establishing ICT training needs for individuals or groups

Table of Contents

1. Training needs analysis
   1. TNA problems
   2. Estimating ICT Competence
   3. Sources of information regarding ICT competence
   4. Information gathering techniques
   5. Direct Observation
   6. Examination of Work Products
   7. Practical Tests and Assessments
   8. Questionnaires or Checklists
   9. Staff Appraisal Reports
   10. Interviews or Focus Groups
   11. Areas of competence
   12. Learning objectives
   13. Methods of gathering information
   14. Dealing with differing skill levels

Methods of gathering information

We think that this time you will lay more emphasis than previously on evidence from people other than the learner. Of course, it is still important to consult the learner in order to gain their views on the skills which they think they require. However, at this stage you are likely also to consider:

• direct observation of others using ICT in the workplace, eg: staff already employed in a post to which the learner may aspire
• examination of work samples or work records belonging to others, eg: a colleague in a similar job to the learner who demonstrates greater ICT competence
• questionnaires or checklists covering key ICT competences, eg: completed by managerial or supervisory staff
• interviews with managers, supervisors and colleagues in similar posts or in promoted posts
• literature provided by suppliers of new/upgraded ICT equipment which it is intended to install in the library.

And finally having gathered all your evidence as to the existing skills and knowledge of your learners and the competence which are the end result of the training, you can design an appropriate training programme to upskill the learners to the required level.

Let's have a look now at Dealing with differing skill levels ...