AVOCADO+ Lite training programme feedback
The evaluation results for AVOCADO+ Lite were similar to AVOCADO+ in that attendees rated trainers’ knowledge and interaction highest amongst all aspects of the training, and the clearest space for improvement was training materials.
Participants’ favourite parts of the programme
Positive responses focused on the fundamentals of the training programme: the structure, content of the sessions, and the trainers. They mentioned the mentoring sessions, the way the course was organised, course content, the relevance to Community Interest Companies, the quality of training personnel, and the interactive learning formats.
Participants’ suggested improvements to the programme
Negative responses focused on practicalities and logistics, such as the timing of supplementary material like slides and recordings and the timing of the sessions themselves.
As the programme progresses, we hope to be able to offer participants more examples of previous participants’ journeys through the programme as guides and points of inspiration.
Innovation Hub: Results from June 2023 pilot
On 2nd June, we hosted a training event on AI in fundraising at Linklaters HQ in central London. We covered the potential applications and pitfalls of using AI in a fundraising context, how small BAMER-led non-profits can best adapt their fundraising strategies to it, and how underrepresented communities can advocate for equality and fairness in the construction and deployment of AI-enabled systems.
”Great session, developing a better understanding of how to use AI in todays climate of fundraising was invaluable.Kadija George
Most participants participated in person in London, but one joined remotely from Manchester. The organisations they represented work in a wide range of areas, including ecotherapy, literary and creative cultural events, family support, fundraising and capacity building, and family support and young people. There were roughly equal numbers of incorporated charities, social enterprises, and unregistered community organisations.
A large majority of attendees said they had never or rarely used AI before the event. Afterwards, the same number said they planned to explore it further, and all attendees said they were either “very confident” or “a little more confident.” Attendees rated all aspects of the training as “good” or “excellent” and rated trainers’ knowledge of the subject area and confidence responding to questions especially highly.
Attendees’ level of familiarity with AI was slightly above the national average at the time: a June 2023 ONS survey found roughly half of adults in the UK had never used AI, 45% had used it a little, and 5% used it a lot. DCMS research the previous year found still lower rates of uptake amongst businesses.
However, the ONS and DCMS research did not measure confidence or ability in using AI—arguably the most important metrics for an education initiative like AVOCADO+ Lite. The large increase in confidence we observed from post-training surveys, along with comments from participants, suggests a high level of demand for in-depth courses. BAMER-led profits will need knowledge and skills, not just awareness, if they are to leverage new technologies and not be placed at a disadvantage by them.