Aliu AmaneshThe University of South Africa (Unisa) offers a variety of short learning programmes (SLPs) designed to equip individuals with skills in facilitation and assessment. These courses are tailored for professionals in education, training, and workplace development. Whether you are an aspiring facilitator or an experienced assessor, these programmes are crafted to meet the diverse needs of learners seeking formal qualifications in these roles.
Train the Trainer
This course is designed for individuals who wish to become professional facilitators in various educational or workplace training environments. It emphasizes effective communication, adult learning principles, and the practical delivery of training sessions. Participants will learn how to create engaging lesson plans, manage group dynamics, and utilize tools to ensure knowledge transfer.
Through practical exercises and theoretical frameworks, learners are prepared to handle the diverse challenges of training. By the end of the course, participants will have the skills to plan, implement, and evaluate training interventions effectively in a professional setting.
Conduct Outcomes-Based Assessment
This course is tailored for individuals who aim to become certified assessors in an outcomes-based education and training environment. It focuses on equipping participants with the necessary skills to assess learners effectively against specific outcomes, in compliance with quality assurance standards. This is particularly beneficial for those working in education, corporate training, or skills development sectors.
Key Learning Areas:
- Understanding Outcomes-Based Assessment
Participants are introduced to the principles and practices of outcomes-based education. This involves learning how to design assessment tools that align with learning outcomes and standards. - Developing Assessment Plans
Learners are trained to create detailed assessment plans that consider fairness, reliability, and validity. This includes selecting appropriate methods such as observation, interviews, and practical demonstrations. - Conducting Assessments
Practical components teach participants how to administer assessments, record results, and provide constructive feedback. Emphasis is placed on adhering to ethical and professional standards. - Moderation and Reporting
The course also covers how to handle moderation processes and compile comprehensive assessment reports that meet organizational and regulatory requirements.
Facilitate Learning Using a Variety of Methodologies
This course is ideal for individuals who aspire to become versatile facilitators capable of engaging diverse learner groups. It equips participants with the skills to utilize various methodologies to create dynamic and inclusive learning environments. The training emphasizes adaptability, creativity, and learner-centered approaches.
Key Learning Areas:
- Exploring Facilitation Techniques
Participants are introduced to a broad range of facilitation techniques, such as collaborative learning, problem-solving sessions, and multimedia-based teaching. They learn how to choose and adapt methods based on learners’ needs and content requirements. - Designing Engaging Learning Activities
This module teaches participants to design interactive learning activities that stimulate critical thinking and active participation. Practical exercises help learners understand how to align activities with desired outcomes. - Handling Group Dynamics
Learners are taught to manage group interactions effectively, addressing conflicts and fostering a positive learning atmosphere. Strategies for encouraging participation and handling diverse personalities are explored. - Evaluation and Feedback
The course also covers techniques for assessing learning progress and providing feedback. This ensures facilitators can measure the effectiveness of their methodologies and improve their practices.
Graduates of this course are equipped to create enriching educational experiences that cater to diverse learning styles and contexts.
Conduct Moderation of Outcomes-Based Assessments
This advanced course is aimed at individuals who wish to specialize in the moderation of assessments within an outcomes-based education framework. Moderators play a crucial role in ensuring assessment quality, consistency, and alignment with prescribed standards.
Key Learning Areas:
- Understanding the Role of a Moderator
Participants learn the importance of moderation in maintaining assessment integrity. The course covers legal and ethical considerations, as well as the responsibilities of moderators in upholding assessment standards. - Developing Moderation Plans
This module focuses on the planning phase of moderation, including selecting samples, setting criteria, and scheduling reviews. Participants are trained to develop comprehensive plans that ensure systematic moderation processes. - Reviewing and Verifying Assessments
Learners gain practical skills in evaluating assessor performance and verifying the alignment of assessments with required outcomes. Emphasis is placed on identifying inconsistencies and providing corrective recommendations. - Documenting and Reporting
The course concludes with training on compiling detailed moderation reports that document findings and suggest improvements. Participants also learn how to present their findings to stakeholders effectively.
Design and Develop Outcomes-Based Assessments
This course is designed for professionals involved in curriculum development, assessment planning, and instructional design. It focuses on creating effective, outcomes-based assessment tools and strategies that align with learning objectives. The course is ideal for educators, trainers, and HR professionals looking to refine their assessment design capabilities.
Key Learning Areas:
- Understanding Assessment Design Principles
Participants are introduced to the theoretical underpinnings of assessment design, including validity, reliability, and fairness. They learn how these principles guide the development of robust assessment tools. - Developing Assessment Instruments
Learners acquire skills in creating a variety of assessment instruments, such as tests, case studies, and practical demonstrations. The course emphasizes tailoring these tools to meet specific learning outcomes. - Aligning Assessments with Standards
This module focuses on ensuring assessments align with national qualifications frameworks and institutional standards. Participants practice mapping learning outcomes to appropriate assessment criteria. - Reviewing and Improving Assessment Tools
The course also teaches strategies for reviewing and refining assessment tools to enhance their effectiveness. Participants are equipped to identify gaps and make iterative improvements.
Mentoring and Coaching for Development
This course is tailored for individuals who wish to guide others in achieving personal and professional growth. It focuses on developing the skills required to mentor and coach effectively in various settings, including workplaces, educational institutions, and community organizations.
Key Learning Areas:
- Understanding the Role of Mentors and Coaches
The course begins with an exploration of the distinct roles and responsibilities of mentors and coaches. Participants learn about the ethical considerations and boundaries involved in these relationships. - Building Effective Relationships
Learners are taught how to establish trust and rapport with mentees or coachees. Strategies for active listening, empathy, and communication are central to this module. - Setting Goals and Providing Feedback
Participants practice techniques for helping individuals set realistic, measurable goals. They also learn to provide constructive feedback that fosters development while maintaining motivation. - Monitoring Progress and Sustaining Development
The course concludes with methods for tracking progress and ensuring sustainable growth. Participants are trained to adjust approaches based on evolving needs and challenges.
Plan and Conduct Workplace Assessments
This course focuses on equipping participants with the skills to conduct effective assessments in workplace environments. It is tailored for professionals responsible for evaluating employee performance, skill development, or compliance with workplace standards.
Key Learning Areas:
- Understanding Workplace Assessments
Participants are introduced to the principles of workplace assessments, including their role in employee development and organizational growth. The course covers the alignment of assessments with job roles, industry standards, and company goals. - Developing Assessment Tools
Learners are guided in designing practical assessment tools, such as checklists, observation forms, and competency-based tests. The course emphasizes the importance of creating tools that are fair, reliable, and aligned with workplace tasks. - Conducting Effective Assessments
This module trains participants in administering assessments that evaluate both technical and soft skills. Emphasis is placed on maintaining professionalism, objectivity, and adherence to ethical standards. - Providing Feedback and Recommendations
Participants learn how to deliver constructive feedback to employees, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. The course also explores how to create actionable development plans based on assessment results.
Advanced Facilitation Skills
This course is aimed at experienced facilitators seeking to deepen their expertise and broaden their methodologies. It provides advanced techniques for managing complex learning environments and engaging diverse groups effectively.
Key Learning Areas:
- Innovative Facilitation Techniques
Participants are introduced to cutting-edge facilitation methods, including digital learning tools, experiential learning strategies, and scenario-based training. They learn how to tailor these techniques to various contexts and learner needs. - Managing Complex Group Dynamics
This module focuses on handling challenging group situations, such as conflict resolution, diverse cultural backgrounds, and varying levels of expertise. Strategies for fostering collaboration and maintaining focus are covered. - Facilitating Virtual and Hybrid Sessions
The course includes training on facilitating virtual and hybrid learning sessions effectively. Participants gain proficiency in using online platforms, engaging remote learners, and troubleshooting technical challenges. - Evaluating Advanced Facilitation Practices
Learners are taught how to evaluate the success of their facilitation through feedback and performance metrics. Emphasis is placed on continuous improvement and adapting to evolving learner expectations.
Skills Development Facilitation
This course is designed for individuals who aspire to become Skills Development Facilitators (SDFs), responsible for aligning employee development initiatives with organizational and national skills frameworks. The course equips participants with the knowledge and tools needed to drive effective skills development programs within organizations.
Key Learning Areas:
- Understanding Skills Development Frameworks
Participants are introduced to the principles and structures of skills development in South Africa, including the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). This foundation enables them to align training with regulatory requirements. - Conducting Skills Audits
Learners gain practical skills in conducting comprehensive skills audits to identify workforce training needs. This includes designing surveys, analyzing gaps, and prioritizing development areas. - Developing Workplace Skills Plans
The course teaches participants how to draft Workplace Skills Plans (WSPs) that outline strategies for training and employee growth. This involves aligning plans with organizational goals and ensuring compliance with SETA guidelines. - Coordinating Implementation and Reporting
Participants learn how to facilitate training programs, monitor progress, and compile annual training reports. This module emphasizes effective communication with stakeholders to secure buy-in and ensure successful execution.
Evaluate Learning Programs
This course is tailored for professionals tasked with assessing the effectiveness of training programs and ensuring they meet organizational and learner needs. Participants gain expertise in evaluating learning outcomes, program quality, and overall impact.
Key Learning Areas:
- Understanding Evaluation Frameworks
The course begins by introducing participants to evaluation models, such as Kirkpatrick’s Four Levels of Evaluation. These frameworks guide participants in assessing training effectiveness comprehensively. - Designing Evaluation Tools
Learners are trained to develop tools such as feedback surveys, observation checklists, and performance metrics. Emphasis is placed on ensuring these tools provide reliable data for program assessment. - Conducting Comprehensive Evaluations
This module focuses on gathering and analyzing data from various sources, including learner feedback, trainer performance, and organizational impact. Participants learn how to synthesize findings to draw meaningful conclusions. - Reporting and Recommending Improvements
Participants are taught how to compile evaluation reports that highlight strengths, weaknesses, and actionable recommendations. They also learn to present findings to stakeholders in a clear and impactful manner.
Develop Learning Materials
This course focuses on empowering individuals to create effective and engaging learning materials for a variety of educational and training contexts. Participants learn the principles of instructional design and how to tailor materials to different learning needs and environments.
Key Learning Areas:
- Principles of Instructional Design
Participants explore foundational concepts such as learning theories, content structuring, and the importance of clear learning outcomes. This knowledge is essential for developing materials that promote understanding and retention. - Creating Engaging Content
The course teaches how to design materials that captivate learners, including visuals, interactive elements, and real-world examples. Participants practice using different media formats, such as presentations, manuals, and e-learning modules. - Aligning Materials with Standards
Learners are guided in ensuring their materials meet educational or industry standards. This involves integrating competency-based approaches and adhering to guidelines set by accreditation bodies. - Testing and Revising Materials
Emphasis is placed on piloting learning materials and incorporating feedback for improvement. Participants learn to identify and address issues related to clarity, engagement, and accessibility.
Facilitate Learning for Adults
This course is designed for individuals who wish to specialize in adult education and training. It equips participants with the skills and methodologies to effectively engage and teach adult learners in various contexts, from corporate training to community education.
Key Learning Areas:
- Understanding Adult Learners
Participants delve into the principles of adult learning, including motivation, experiential learning, and self-directed education. This module explores the unique challenges and opportunities associated with adult education. - Developing Adult-Centered Learning Strategies
Learners are trained in techniques such as problem-solving workshops, discussion facilitation, and real-world application exercises. The focus is on making learning relevant and immediately applicable to the adult learner’s personal or professional life. - Encouraging Participation and Collaboration
The course emphasizes strategies for creating inclusive and collaborative learning environments. Participants practice managing group dynamics, encouraging peer learning, and addressing resistance or disengagement. - Evaluating Learning Outcomes
Participants learn how to measure the success of their facilitation by assessing changes in knowledge, skills, and attitudes among adult learners. This involves both formal assessments and reflective practices.
Implement Quality Management Systems for Education and Training
This course is aimed at professionals who oversee quality assurance processes within education and training institutions. It provides participants with the knowledge and tools needed to design, implement, and monitor quality management systems that ensure compliance with regulatory standards and enhance learning outcomes.
Key Learning Areas:
- Understanding Quality Management Principles
Participants explore the core principles of quality assurance, including continuous improvement, accountability, and learner-centric approaches. These principles are contextualized within education and training environments. - Developing Quality Management Systems
The course teaches learners how to design systems that monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of teaching, learning, and assessment. This includes creating frameworks that align with national and international quality standards. - Conducting Quality Audits
Learners gain practical skills in conducting audits to assess compliance with established standards. They practice evaluating processes such as curriculum design, facilitator performance, and learner outcomes. - Reporting and Improvement Planning
The course concludes with techniques for compiling audit reports and developing action plans to address identified gaps. Participants learn to foster a culture of quality within their organizations.
Facilitate the Integration of Workplace Learning with Institutional Learning
This course focuses on bridging the gap between theoretical education and practical workplace application. It is designed for professionals responsible for coordinating internships, apprenticeships, or work-based learning programs.
Key Learning Areas:
- Understanding Workplace Integration
Participants explore the benefits and challenges of integrating institutional learning with workplace experiences. This includes understanding how workplace learning enhances skill development and employability. - Designing Work-Based Learning Programs
Learners are trained to develop structured programs that align academic content with workplace requirements. This involves creating objectives, defining roles, and establishing partnerships with employers. - Monitoring and Supporting Learners
The course emphasizes the importance of providing ongoing support to learners in workplace settings. Participants learn techniques for mentoring, resolving challenges, and ensuring learners meet both institutional and workplace expectations. - Evaluating the Success of Integration
Participants are taught how to measure the effectiveness of integrated learning programs by assessing learner performance, employer satisfaction, and the achievement of learning outcomes.
Facilitate Learning in Occupational Contexts
This course is designed for professionals who aim to specialize in facilitating learning within specific occupational or industry settings. It equips participants with the skills to tailor training to workplace requirements while ensuring the alignment of learning outcomes with industry standards.
Key Learning Areas:
- Understanding Occupational Learning Needs
Participants learn to identify and analyze the specific learning needs of employees within different industries. This involves understanding occupational standards, job roles, and the skills required for workforce development. - Developing Industry-Specific Training Materials
The course teaches participants how to create targeted training materials that address the technical, operational, and behavioral competencies needed in a workplace. Emphasis is placed on practical, hands-on learning methods. - Facilitating Practical Workplace Learning
Learners practice delivering training in real-world occupational settings, such as workshops, factory floors, or offices. Techniques for engaging employees and ensuring knowledge application are highlighted. - Evaluating and Improving Occupational Training
Participants learn how to assess the effectiveness of their facilitation by measuring employee performance and productivity improvements. Feedback loops for refining training programs are also covered.
Design and Implement Assessment Strategies
This course is aimed at professionals responsible for creating and applying assessment strategies in various learning environments. It emphasizes developing comprehensive plans that ensure fair, valid, and effective evaluations of learner performance.
Key Learning Areas:
- Planning Assessment Strategies
Participants are introduced to the foundational principles of assessment planning, including alignment with learning outcomes, resource management, and stakeholder involvement. This ensures that assessments are fit for purpose. - Creating a Range of Assessment Tools
The course focuses on developing diverse assessment instruments, such as written tests, performance evaluations, and portfolios. Participants learn to choose the most appropriate tools for different contexts. - Implementing Assessment Plans
Learners gain skills in executing assessment strategies effectively, including scheduling assessments, coordinating with assessors, and addressing unforeseen challenges during implementation. - Reviewing and Refining Strategies
Participants are taught how to analyze assessment results and stakeholder feedback to refine their strategies. This ensures continuous improvement and alignment with evolving educational or industry requirements.
Conclusion
The variety of facilitator and assessor courses offered by Unisa provides individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in education, training, and development. Whether you’re aiming to become a professional facilitator, an assessor, or a mentor, these courses cater to diverse needs within both educational and workplace settings. Each programme is thoughtfully designed to equip participants with practical tools and strategies that enhance learning outcomes, improve assessment practices, and contribute to the overall success of both learners and organizations.
By completing any of these courses, professionals gain the expertise to support effective learning and development initiatives, ensuring they meet industry standards and cater to the specific needs of their audiences. With an emphasis on real-world application, these courses enable individuals to foster an environment of continuous improvement, adaptability, and high-quality learning experiences. The skills gained from these programmes are invaluable in a wide range of sectors, from corporate training to vocational education, and play a critical role in shaping the future of education and skills development.