As part of our eWBL (electronic Work-Based Learning) project, work package 4 (WP4) focused on delivering the eWBL Toolkit and Training programme to higher education (HE) lecturers, trainers, and administrative staff via Master Trainers. The eWBL capacity-building program aimed to empower educators and administrators with the knowledge and practical tools required to design and implement effective eWBL programs. This phase, led by Momentum in Ireland, implemented the training across five European countries: Germany, Italy, Ireland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands.

 

WP4 started with the design of the training course based on materials from earlier work packages (WP2 and WP3). A comprehensive Train-the-Trainer workshop took place in Ireland and was followed by national-level training sessions conducted by Master Trainers in their respective countries from February to July 2024. This training included both face-to-face and online sessions, using a range of digital tools to engage participants effectively. Designed to be highly interactive, it promoted the active participation of learners through group activities and problem-solving exercises. It also put the strategies outlined in the eWBL Toolkit into practice, collecting feedback from participants to refine the toolkit further, assess the training's effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

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Based on the feedback, both Master Trainers and participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the training. Participants appreciated the structure, relevance, and practical applications of the content, finding it directly applicable to their roles. Master Trainers, many of whom were conducting such training for the first time, found the experience valuable for their professional development, particularly in areas like public speaking, training delivery, and organisational skills.

 

Despite this positive feedback, several challenges were identified. The substantial time commitment required for preparation, particularly in translating and customising materials for local contexts, was a significant burden for Master Trainers. This challenge was more pronounced in countries where the original Master Trainers were unavailable, necessitating the recruitment of new trainers at short notice. Additionally, maintaining participant engagement during online sessions proved challenging, with a dip in engagement levels during these stages.

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The implementation of the capacity-building training varied across the five partner countries, reflecting different local contexts and challenges. For instance, in Germany, the training focused on recruiting expert speakers and participants both internally and externally, while in Italy, the departure of the original Master Trainer required quick adjustments. In Slovenia, the training attracted a large number of participants, but the intensity of the training schedule posed challenges for both trainers and participants.

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The eWBL Toolkit, being the central resource for the training, was generally well-received, with participants praising its comprehensive structure and variety of tools. However, some participants encountered difficulties with the usability of the templates, which required retyping rather than easy copying and editing. There was also feedback suggesting the inclusion of more practical tools and examples, as well as enhancements to the digital and interactive resources available in the toolkit. Based on this evaluation, several recommendations and changes are being made to enhance the eWBL Toolkit including more interactive elements, improved usability and accessibility of templates. More practical tools will be added and quality assurance exercises to better support educators in real-world applications of eWBL as well as integrating guest speakers from relevant industries to provide practical insights and contextualise the training materials.

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The eWBL capacity-building program has been largely successful in achieving its objectives, equipping educators across Europe with the skills and knowledge needed to deliver high-quality eWBL programs. Stay tuned as we make the final enhancements to the eWBL Toolkit which will be available as an open resource on our website in November 2024.

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By Samantha Carty, Momentum