Graham Eele Development Data Group World Bank New Approaches to Training in National Accounts: A role for e-learning? Graham Eele Development Data Group World Bank

Overview Human resources and capacity building in statistics Training in national accounts Using an e-learning approach Some issues for discussion

Human resources and statistical capacity In most statistical agencies human resources are the most important resource In developing countries staff costs typically represent more than 75 per cent of the budget Need to develop skills and ensure staff keep up with technical and other developments Skilled staff are often the scarcest resource

Problems to be addressed Problems in attracting and retaining skilled staff Limited supply of skills Diseconomies of scale, especially for small countries Imbalances between professional and other staff in many statistical systems, but limited flexibility

Training in national accounts Small numbers of staff in many countries Need for continuous training related to compilation, but also improving source data Limited training opportunities High cost of training, particularly the opportunity cost of staff being away from their posts

E-learning Well developed training method, widely used, but less experience with use in statistics Form of distance learning, can be used alone or in combination with other methods Can be linked to formal assessments if needed WB developing an e-learning program on management of statistical capacity strengthening programs

Advantages and disadvantages Low delivery cost Low marginal cost of adding additional learners Flexibility and limited disruption to work programs Disadvantages High development cost Lack of access to a trainer Motivation of trainees Need for access to computer facilities and the Internet

E-learning in national accounts Potentially useful technique, but requires careful planning and precise definition of training needs and objectives Modular approach likely to be effective Need to make the course relevant to the trainees – need for many case studies Requires built-in assessment mechanisms Importance of feedback from users and extensive review of the material

Some issues Development costs are not insubstantial; for the WB course one module involving enough material for about 60 to 90 minutes study requires: Between 7 to 12 days for material preparation ($5,000 to $8,000) About three weeks to put the material into an e-learning format, once the overall design is agreed, at a cost of around $12,000

Potential for collaboration Developing the overall design Sharing the cost Preparing material Identifying case study material But who takes the lead?

The World Bank e-learning course Why statistics matter National statistical systems: organization, activities and principles Assessing statistical systems: tools and processes National strategies for the development of statistics Managing NSDS preparation Strengthening coordination, management and legislation

Modules Building statistical infrastructure Investing in data collection and dissemination Improving administrative data systems Human resource development Costing and financing statistical development Implementation of a capacity building program

Advice and comments very welcome