A study into the use of self-efficacy and confidence measurements

This thesis focuses on an aspect of the professional work of the author: that of the training of local trade union representatives by trade unions to ensure they are competent, capable and confident in the delivery of their role in local workplaces. It considers the four levels of evaluation of training outlined by Kirkpatrick (1994) and proposes the use of confidence scales as a means of demonstrating levels of evaluation in this field of training. Trade unions are reliant on the many members that volunteer to be local (unpaid) representatives in their own work places. To ensure the union provides an adequate service to its fee paying membership it needs to support and train its volunteers so they become competent, capable and confident in their roles. This research considers the effects on those volunteers who have attended training courses provided by the union trainers. It draws on the research on confidence levels and examines practice from a range of trade unions across European countries. Three types of training course are the focus for the study; as the thesis will look at whether or not the confidence levels of trade union representatives differ depending on the type and delivery method of the course they attend and whether or not this will have an impact on their post-course behaviour in the workplace. A research tool (questionnaire) was developed to measure the responses of participants attending courses and the results compared using Chi-square statistical tests to consider any results that were of statistical significance. The study concludes that statistically significant higher confidence levels are reported on the 2+2+2 mode of delivery of the six day training course in comparison to either the traditional 5 day or the mixed method modes of delivery. It recommends the use of confidence measures as a useful concept in the evaluation of training courses for union representatives as a way of improving value for money and return on investment for unions and a better developed trade union representative for the future.

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

edd

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Greenwich

Year dc:date.issued

2011

Author dc:creator

• Barton, Andrew Ian

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Goddard, William
• Kinchington, Francia

• HD Industries. Land use. Labor
• LB Theory and practice of education

Language dc:language

en