Boonying, Varinthorn (2007) Using proactive evaluation to develop a policy for public sector training programs in emotional intelligence in Thailand. Other Degree thesis, Victoria University.

Abstract

This study focuses on the development of effective Emotional Intelligence training programs in the public sector through the development of an Emotional Intelligence training policy leading, ultimately, to the development of a regional policy for the development and operation of effective Emotional Intelligence training programs. The research is set in the context of significant change being made to the training of public servants in Rayong Province, Thailand. The study is based on a needs assessment within the Proactive Form of Evaluation as categorised by Owen & Rogers (1999) and Owen (2006). This research was conducted in two phases: a needs assessment and the development of a training policy. The needs assessment consisted of four qualitative steps: the first, determining the actual state of training in the province by means of focus groups consisting of middle-level public servants; the second, determining that desired state of such training by means of semi-structured interviews of Heads of Public Sectors in the province; the third, identifying best practice by means of a research review; the fourth, determining the needs of an Emotional Intelligence training program by comparing the difference between the ‘desired state’ (determined by a combination of steps two and three), and the ‘actual state’ (determined by step one). The development of a training policy consisted of two steps: the development of a draft training program policy and the testing of this draft by discussion with senior public servants. The draft training program policy employed Dror’s (1973, 1987) model of optimal policy development. The draft training program policy was tested by means of three independent semistructured interviews of three senior officers of the Thai Public Service – the Governor of Rayong Province, a winner of the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership, and a Member of the Senate, Rayong Province who was also a member of the CEO’s Committee of Rayong Province. The findings of this study were validated by means of triangulation outcomes of the research: the needs assessment, the semi-structured interviews with Heads of Public Sectors, and the testing of the draft policy against the perceptions of three senior public servants. The research had three significant outcomes: the development of policy for effective Emotional Intelligence training programs for public servants in Rayong Province, and hence for Thailand; demonstrating the effectiveness of Proactive Evaluation in developing such policy; highlighting key elements that are required for change in organisations.

Search Google Scholar

Repository staff login