The training programme is organised in 6 different training modules, covering the 5 CSR broad areas identified in the project as well as an introductory and preparatory module:

Each training module is organised according to the following structure:

Target Groups
Trainer’s Profile
General Objective
Specific Objectives
Theoretical Contents / Learning Contents
Module Structure
Methods and Practical Training Activities
Didactical/Pedagogical Resources/Materials
Duration

The total duration of the standard programme for the six training modules is 24 hours. For each module there is a 4-hour standard programme and suggestions of extra-activities if a training module longer than 4 hours is desired.

By following the described strategic approach to the training programme, the partnership wants to provide this product with the necessary flexibility to enable its usage in different contexts, for different purposes and for different target groups. So, besides being used as a complete training programme, the programme was designed to be used module by module or in integration to broader training programmes, especially in the field of management.

In order to locate each training module into the overall training programme the project partnership developed a CSR Knowledge Map as a PowerPoint presentation to be used on the theoretical introduction to each module.

General Target Groups

Entrepreneurs, SMEs owners and managers
Consultants, education and training specialists
Academics and students

For each training module there are specific target groups defined as the ones potentially interested in a particular module.

General Trainer’s Profile

In order to ensure the success of the training programme, the trainers must be selected according to the following general profile:

Previous training experience (preferably in CSR issues)
Previous professional experience in companies (preferably in SMEs)
Good command of communication and moderation techniques
Good command of group animation techniques
Good command of presentation techniques
General knowledge on CSR
Positive approach to the whole CSR process
Ability to provide guidance and counselling
Basic knowledge of economics and business administration

For each training module there are trainer’s specific skills and experience recommended which will be specified in each training module.
The trainer for each module should be selected according to the general and specific trainer profile, meaning that the same or different trainers can cover the training programme.

General Objective

After going through the training programme, participants will understand the concept of CSR, its main broad areas and issues, the importance of integrating CSR into companies’ and organisations’ decision-making and operations and be able to commit to action in CSR.

Specific Objectives

Participants going through the whole training programme (6 modules) will be able to:

Identify the concept of CSR and its main broad areas and issues
Understand the importance of integrating CSR issues into the companies’ and organisations’ strategies and operations
Recognise the differences between values and norms, power and responsibility and conflicts of values/ethical dilemmas
Understand the importance of Human Resources management and development, working atmosphere and workplace conditions in companies’ performance
Recognise the importance of environmental issues in business context
Identify the required steps to implement environmental measures and policies in their workplace and in their business production processes
Understand the importance of long term relationship with suppliers and business partners
Identify the main social and environmental aspects of products/services
Evaluate the growing commercial opportunities that arise in the area of social and environmental products and services
Acknowledge the company’s impact on society and identify existing community links related to the specific situation of a SME
Develop win-win situations between companies and the society

Practical Training Activities

For each module - and besides a description of the learning contents that should be worked out by trainers - the partnership developed several tools/didactical materials to be used in the training programme as practical training activities: “Case Studies”, “Ethical Dilemmas” and “Exercises”.
The partners strongly believe that such pedagogical approach to the learning contents – a training programme structure based on practical training activities more than on theoretical expositions – is the most appropriate approach, taking into consideration the target groups and the training objectives.
Besides that, the partnership is convinced that the preparation and the usage of these materials in training and awareness-raising situations can be very a positive contribution – from vocational training to the process of innovation, with a view to improve competitiveness and entrepreneurship (also a Leonardo da Vinci Programme objective), and to the development of new forms of learning and teaching (another Leonardo da Vinci Programme priority).

Evaluation

The project partnership propose and strongly encourage the use of a training programme evaluation tool. To see it  please click here:

Assessment and Certification