News

An independent evaluative report released this week into the Learning Representative Programme shows that workplace learning supported by Learning Representatives (Learning Reps) led to improved individual worker and workplace performance.

The evaluation has found that the Learning Representatives Programme has been extremely effective in meeting its primary purpose - to raise awareness amongst workers and employers of opportunities to access and participate in LLN and industry training. This has been particularly true for those who had not been successful in the formal education system and who therefore lacked both the confidence and knowledge to re-engage with formal learning. The evaluation found that workplace learning facilitated by Learning Reps led to improved individual and workplace performance.

While implemented in different ways in different workplaces, the evaluation found that the common factors that contribute to the effectiveness of the Learning Reps Programme are:

• Management support, particularly in removing barriers to Learning Rep activity,
• Formal vertical and horizontal communication systems within workplaces,
• Practical support for Learning Reps in workplaces.
• Union support for the purpose and the practice of Learning Reps.
  

The evaluation found that issues to be addressed to raise the effectiveness of the Learning Representatives Programme, aside from the critical issue of continued and sustained funding are:

• Ongoing clarification of the role of Learning Reps in workplaces,
• Ongoing development and renewal of the role of Learning Reps once a 'learning culture' is established in workplaces,
• Development of a skills pathway for the Learning Reps themselves,
• The ongoing role of unions in Learning Reps activities.

A copy of the full report is available here: Learning Reps Evaluation

Any enquiries can be directed to the CTU Secretary Peter Conway.