Analysis of FLLLEX-Radar Oran Doherty RPL and WBL Facilitator at LYIT

 LYIT FLLLEX representative first viewed FLLLEX-Radar in January  Original thoughts: – Quantity of questions contained in the tool; – In depth nature of the questions; – Organising focus groups (would they agree to participate…..); – Would focus groups understand questions; – Writing the report to represent focus group findings. Background to the Self Assessment Tool

 It was agreed that 4 focus groups would be used to gather information: –Focus Group 1:LLL decision makers; –Focus Group 2: Lecturers; –Focus Group 3:Learners; –Focus Group 4: Employers.  Introductory presentation developed explaining FLLLEX Project, LLL at LYIT, LLL in Ireland and internationally and objectives of the tool.

Focus Group 1  Focus Group 1 subsequently met 4 times to answer the questions posed in FLLLEX-Radar.  Provided a good forum for discussing LLL and for determining current situation at LYIT  In the first meeting we identified the composition of each focus group.  This was important to establish early in order to organise focus groups.

Positive Elements of the Tool  Wide Range of information gathered. –Current situation of LLL locally, nationally and internationally. –Identification of various stakeholders –RPL –Promotion of LLL  Inclusion of numerous stakeholders  Acts like a checklist  Can be externally assessed once completed.

Possible areas for improvement  Reduce Content –Due to number of questions and in-depth nature of some questions, this is a very time consuming exercise. –Organising 4 focus groups also challenging  Different set of questions for different focus groups.  More emphasis on future as opposed to past and present.

LYIT’s reaction to FLLLEX-Radar.  A very useful exercise.  The project ensured that the Head of Development, LLL Coordinator and WBL/RPL Facilitator sat down and formally discussed LLL. Provided good structure for discussing LLL.  Better understanding as to our current situation.  Good to get the views and opinions of several stakeholders and make comparisons.  Great getting the views and opinions of the expert panel in relation to LYIT and LLL.

Recommendations for other HE providers using FLLLEX-Radar  Do no underestimate the work load involved.  Plan ahead – especially in relation to composition of focus groups.  Develop an introductory presentation explaining: –FLLLEX; –FLLLEX-Radar –LLL in Europe; –LLL in the provider’s county; –LLL at the host institute.  Ensure the key LLL personnel are involved  Act on the findings and make a list of “to do’s” afterwards