Evaluation Notes: Session One, Exploration - International Extension Training Program 2003-2004

Participatory Evaluation of Session I: Exploration

The objective of the Internationalizing Extension Training Program 2003-2004 is to internationalize University of Florida IFAS Extension professional development and institutional building. While you have been defined as the “learning team” of this project, we also hope to learn from you. This training session is to serve you and we look forward to a two-way exchange of knowledge throughout the program. We value your expertise and are interested in your feedback in order to best adapt the sessions to your needs as we proceed.

 

Please fill out these few questions. (Answers will remain anonymous.) A discussion will follow.

 

1. Has the session addressed issues that are important to you?

  • 5 responses of: "Yes" with no other comment.
  • Yes, I came away from the session with a clear idea of the reasons I’ve been asked to participate in the Costa Rica Experience.
  • Yes, it has helped me to better understand the concept of internationalizing extension so that when others ask me , “What is the purpose of this trip?’, I can answer this correctly.
  • Yes, basic information on website for any other questions. Very thorough.
  • Yes. I feel much more prepared for the trip.
  • Yes. It was great to get a background on the  country as it compares to Florida while also receiving an overview of the trip.
  • Appreciation of another culture, and understanding funding.

2. Are the speakers effective? Why or why not?

  • 2 responses of: "Yes" with no other comment.
  • Yes.  The speakers were all clear and informed. Sessions began and ended promptly.
  • Rodney Clouser was a very good speaker; his teaching methods make you understand why you are here. Nick and Pete are very helpful, and Lisette is understanding.
  • For the most part.  Some info seems repetitive.
  • Yes, because they covered issues that we will be confronted with on our Costa Rica trip.
  • Yes. I was pleased with each of the speakers.
  • Yes. Particularly enjoyed the presentation on dealing with other cultures.
  • Yes. Very general, but good. Nick Place set up good objectives. Nice to have such a good panel of speakers.
  • Yes. Allowed time for questions. All were very well prepared and what they presented related directly to this group.
  • Yes. Nick and Steffany did an excellent job with the paper board. I have enjoyed the lists staying up on the wall for reference.

3.  What has been particularly effective/positive about Session I?

  • It was important for me to learn what expectations IFAS has of me as an elected official.
  • Discussions of concerns and expectations.
  • Understanding International Extension. Getting to know other participants, hearing from past participants and seeing how they have applied this experience to their work and clientele.
  • Establishing good background and foundation before visiting Costa Rica.
  • I’m excited about this and seems like a great group.  I think all that was presented increased my interest (Cultural sensitivity #1)
  • Getting to know people, talking about rationale and logistics for the trip, and hearing different perspectives.
  • Understanding the mission and purpose of this program and our trip.
  • Information received in the group session.
  • Session on expectations, session of local government issues (Don Clouser), dinners together were important-change of environment to a more casual setting was good.
  • Good overview of why we are here, what the purpose is for Extension involvement.
  • Most of the participants have different cultural ideas, so we hear from each other sharing knowledge.

4. Is the style of information delivery effective? Would you prefer a different approach? What?

  • The delivery style was effective and informative.
  • The style was very good.
  • Yes, no
  • Discussions are good, some personalities drive the discussion too much.
  • Styles have been excellent in disseminating information.
  • I feel it is effective with a mix of lecture, group interactive discussion, and some hands-on activities.
  • Yes.
  • I think a Costa Rican representative would really awaken interest in participants but I realize that we need the basic info as well. Participation from the Costa Rican Consolate in Tampa or Miami would be beneficial, especially to answer questions that commissioners have.
  • Yes, informal, non-rigid agenda.
  • Yes, very informal and interactive, which was more conducive to building relationships among participants.
  • Most effective and interesting.

5.  What did you dislike about Session I?

  • 4 responses of: "Nothing" with no other comment.
  • The room temperature seems to fluctuate between quite hot and quite cold.
  • Hard chairs.
  • Lack of coffee in the room. This would have allowed people to maintain upstairs during breaks and interact more.
  • Nothing. Well paced with regular breaks.
  • Short time in group session.
  • Too much sitting in uncomfortable chairs.
  • No information on the kissing bug.

6.  Are your concerns or personal questions, opinions, and comments being heard and addressed?

  • 8 responses of: "Yes" with no other comment.
  • What is the number one health care problem? Concerns on cancer?
  • Yes. (Heard too much).
  • Yes. Liked the discussion of how to show benefits to clientele.
  • Yes, however, first hand experience is invaluable. I would like to have heard from an Earth student/Tican to get their perspective on culture/country. Maybe invite them to dinner.

7. Are there any other topics that you would like to have addressed?

  • 4 responses of : "No" with no other comment.
  • Hear more about how the trip impacted the last year’s participants. How did they integrate the experience in their work.
  • What is already known about the Extension Service in Costa Rica.
  • Costa Rica agenda, but that is coming up.
  • Some language training (even if basic) would be very helpful.
  • The more final schedule for day to day expectations while in Costa Rica.
  • More information on government leaders, the seven provinces, the leaders of San José and the president of Costa Rica.
  • I am interested in learning everything I can about the Ecotourism industry in Costa Rica.

8. ANY other comments that might help the future sessions be more effective?

  • 7 responses of: "No" with no other comment.
  • A one hour orientation with government leaders in Costa Rica.
  • Alternate IFAS/International Programs with Costa Rican-based presentations. Maybe 1 or 2 phrases in Spanish. Overall, GREAT job.
  • Café
  • Keep it up.