Evaluation: An evaluation report examining the outcome of a training course on administering routine vaccinations.

The primary reader for this report is the manager in charge of the training programme. To answer the questions, assume that the report author is a healthcare worker who has moved from work in the field to training.

What does the reader know about the situation?

The manager understands training programmes and programme evaluation because of her background in education. She does not have much knowledge of healthcare, and she has recently arrived in India so may not have a good understanding of the needs of course participants.

What else does the reader need to know about the situation?

The manager needs to understand the qualifications of those who take the training programme. It would be helpful if she understood how the programme was developed, since it was based on an earlier programme and modified in response to an earlier evaluation.

What barriers to communication might prevent your reader from acting on your main message?

Perceptual barriers: The manager might think the course is at too basic a level, since she is not familiar with the skill level of village health workers.

Practical barriers: I believe significant revision is required for this program. To do the revisions I will need help from an instructional designer. We have not budgeted for this.

What will you do in the document to overcome each of the barriers you identified?

I will be sure to explain the qualifications and previous experience of the village health workers who are the programme participants.

I will explain the need for programme revision in terms of increasing efficiency, shortening the programme, and retaining more workers for this project. The revisions will save money and this will help pay for their costs.