Evaluation Results 75th International Session of the European Youth Parliament In Riga, Latvia 15th to 22nd March 2014
Dear reader, This document contains the delegates’ and teachers’ evaluation of the 75th International Session of the European Youth Parliament in Riga, Latvia. As you can see, the evaluation shows that the event has been a success. However, we invite you to study the document carefully to identify what we can learn for future sessions. The evaluation is divided into three sections: I.) Delegates’ Evaluation overview, II.) Delegates’ Evaluation by countries and III.) Teachers’ and chaperones’ evaluation. The overview part depicts the evaluation of delegates concerning different aspects of the session. The answers are represented as diagrams and, when thought useful for the purpose of comparison, accompanied by the answers from previous International Sessions. For a better roundup of the evaluation, we included the most often stated comments and suggestions at the end of each aspect. The quotes at the end should give you an overall impression of the delegates’ evaluation of the session and bring back some memories. In general, the participants underlined their enthusiasm about being part of the session. They expressed their appreciation of the #RigaIS idea, they especially liked that it made them feel very included in the session. The session was unique due to the absence of the media team at the session. The results show that opinions on this matter vary a lot. Generally the delegates would have preferred media team at the session but in the end, due to the activities of the organising team and the chairs team, they missed only the written output of the session. The second part of the evaluation portrays the delegates’ responses according to their country of origin. The diagrams represented in this section are meant to provide each National Committee with an evaluation of their work in support of the IS in Riga. For this purpose, questions regarding the preparation for the session and the future engagement in EYP are included. The delegates’ evaluation is based on 145 returned questionnaires. Due to the incomplete amount of returned questionnaires from the delegates and the absence of the nationality information on some filled-in questionnaires, we were not able to provide an evaluation for all countries taking part in the IS in Riga. The teachers expressed much enthusiasm about the educational value of the European Youth Parliament. All of the respondents agreed that the EYP is “a unique educational experience” and “a wonderful way to increase young people’s awareness of European issues”. They also thought that their students learnt a lot about intercultural dialogue and democracy. The teachers’ evaluation is based on 24 returned questionnaires. If there should be any comments or questions about the evaluation, don’t hesitate to contact us at info@eyp.org. The International Office of the EYP 1
DELEGATES
2
I. Evaluation Overview 1. Preparation and information It was easy to find information material for my committee topic. 5% 1% No No opinion Yes
94 %
I received letters and information soon enough. 17 %
1% No No opinion Yes
82 %
I knew what to expect, therefore preparation proved to be easy. 17 %
79 %
4% No No opinion Yes
I could reach the EYP contact persons without problems. 1% 5%
94 %
No No opinion Yes
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 97 % Zurich 90 % Munich 91 % Amsterdam 82 % Tallinn 82 % Zagreb 87 % Rhône-Alpes 85 %
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 77 % Zurich 80 % Munich 88 % Amsterdam 67 % Tallinn 68 % Zagreb 49 % Rhône-Alpes 70 % „Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 80 % Zurich 82 % Munich 81 % Amsterdam 69 % Tallinn 76 % Zagreb 72 % Rhône-Alpes 79 %
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 86 % Zurich 88 % Munich 91 % Amsterdam 73 % Tallinn 79 % Zagreb 58 % Rhône-Alpes 74 %
3
I visited the session website before the event.
The session website provided me with all necessary information.
21 % No
14 %
Yes
79 %
22 % 64 %
I had problems with finding funding and sponsoring for the travel costs and participation fees. 36 % 52 %
12 %
No No opinion Yes
I used the links in the "Academic Preparation Kit" to prepare my committee topic. 9% 2% No No opinion Yes
89 %
I knew that I was meant to prepare the topic and had informed myself appropriately. 4% 1% No No opinion Yes
95 %
I used the topic overview to prepare my committee topic. 4% 1%
95 %
No No opinion Yes
No No opinion Yes
I do consider the participation fees as reasonable regarding the offerings of the session. 9% 12 % No No opinion Yes
79 %
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 87 % Zurich 90 % Munich 90 % Amsterdam 90 % Tallinn 90 % Zagreb 80 % Rhône-Alpes 90 %
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 98 % Zurich 89 % Munich 89 % Amsterdam 89 % Tallinn 89 % Zagreb 81 % Rhône-Alpes 89 %
My participation in this session motivated me to get into topics that were new to me. 1% 2%
97 %
No No opinion Yes
4
Comments & Suggestions: -
-
Research papers are not always necessary, preparation is excellent but the usefulness of writing a research paper varies. Provide more links to research and preparation material especially for topics where sources may be difficult to find. Have all delegates share info they found in a Facebook group before the session. Send information about the session and the academic preparation kit a bit earlier. It would be better if we could hear from the other committee members earlier. Team building would go smoother if the members have talked before the session. Use fact sheet in tandem with the research paper. Expand the idea of the ECON II video- if each topic could have had such a video, it would have been a time-efficient and excellent way of getting a concise review of the core of each subject. Chairs should always contact their delegates before the session. That will help the delegates to know what kind of further research they need to do and I think it would feel good to at least receive a welcome mail from the chair.
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2. Teambuilding Teambuilding helped to build mutual trust and to form a real team. 3% 96 %
1%
At Teambuilding, we got to know each other and overcame original hesitations. 4%
No No opinion Yes
No No opinion Yes
96 %
The mixture of youngsters from different countries in my committee helped me to get an idea of their country, culture and way of living. 1% No 2% No opinion
Teambuilding helped to develop a feeling for the diversity of cultures and opinions in Europe. 4%2%
No No opinion Yes
94 %
97 %
Yes
Comments & Suggestions: -
-
-
Teambuilding could be shorter if only two days of committee work are provided. More trust-building games rather than basic teambuilding. We could deal even more with actual differences between the cultures of the delegates by having some kind of games which could introduce your culture and nationality. Of course it depends on the personalities of the committee members but I would have liked to have maybe a little more time to just talk with the others. That would help to find one's role in the group. Maybe we could have done some teambuilding activities all together, not just committees. Maybe have two committee dinners. One during teambuilding and one during committee work. It was a good idea that in some committees the teambuilding started already before the session by getting to know each other (presentation through mails, Facebook group, etc...).
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3. Committee Work In my committee, we exchanged very different perspectives and opinions. 6%
During Committee work, I have learned to recognise and respect different perspectives. 4% 1%
No No opinion Yes
94 %
No No opinion Yes
95 %
We have been able to conciliate our different points of view in a common resolution in a peaceful way. 9%
3%
88 %
I went through a truly democratic decision making process. 10 %
No No opinion Yes
I learned to appreciate democratic decision making processes.
87 %
No No opinion Yes
I have experienced the advantages of combined expertise from different European countries. 1%
6% 5%
1%
No No opinion Yes
89 %
3%
No No opinion Yes
98 %
The committee topics were relevant for me. 8%
1%
3 %2 %
No No opinion Yes
91 %
95 %
My committee topic was interesting. 4% 95 %
I felt that the topic was relevant to European Politics today.
1%
No No opinion Yes
No No opinion Yes
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 97 % Zurich 94 % Munich 94 % Amsterdam 94 % Tallinn 90 % Zagreb 88 % Rhône-Alpes 94 %
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Our work was guided by tolerance and respect. 4% 95 %
1% No No opinion Yes
Comments & Suggestions: - Two days of CW are way too little for an IS. At least 4 days are necessary to craft a proper resolution that fulfils the needs of the academic level at an IS. - Better facilities suited for "office" work. Overhead projectors to make phrasing and formulating of the resolution easier. - Something I noticed was that a lot of the time, there were a few select individuals that would volunteer to write points down, or read something aloud, or do similar small but significant tasks, so often and so quickly that they never gave less vocal people in the committee the opportunity to volunteer. This was rather disappointing to observe, and I believe the delegates should have been told to respect the fact that there would be many different types of people there and this should not mean that they have less of an opportunity to participate.
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4. General Assembly (GA) The GA preparation on Thursday was very useful for a good quality of the debates. 13 % 4%
I have experienced the attractiveness of political debates and active participation. 5% 1%
No No opinion Yes
83 %
94 %
I have experienced in GA how democratic debate works. 6% 1%
I have understood better how a parliamentary debate works. 2%
No No opinion Yes
1%
No No opinion Yes
97 %
93 %
It is important that the European Parliament as well as EU Institutions and other political decision makers take our resolutions into consideration. 4%
2%
No No opinion
94 %
No No opinion Yes
Yes
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 96 % Zurich 88 % Munich 92 % Amsterdam 89 % Tallinn 82 % Zagreb 94 % Rhône-Alpes 90 %
Comments & Suggestions: - More strict rules about the open debate and about the points of debate. - Taking into consideration the fact that this session was an IS, the debate rounds should be way longer. - I believe the entire committee should be encouraged to actively defend their resolution in GA, instead of leaving a few people to formulate answers to questions asked and then present them. Teamwork is key! I also believe that delegating points between those in the committee would have been fruitful, so as to make sure that everyone has their opportunity to have a say instead of having points delegated on a first-comefirst-serve basis. - Maybe not so many guest speakers at the beginning. These could maybe have been spread out a little bit more across the week. - I would propose that there should be two attack speeches not just one because if you have prepared an attack speech you clearly feel passionately that the resolution does not fully tackle the issue and should be given a chance to speak.
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5. General Programme There was a good balance between socialising and serious work all through the session. 4%
1% 95 %
No No opinion Yes
The atmosphere all through the session gave me the impression to attend a very special and unique event. 3% 1% No No opinion Yes 96%
During the session, I have had various opportunities to get to know the fears and visions of the other participants. 6% 4% No No opinion Yes 90%
I feel I have become more interested in Europe than I was before the session. 3% 4%
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 96 % Zurich 30 % Munich 92 % Amsterdam 92 % Tallinn 92 % Zagreb 84 % Rhône-Alpes 66 % „Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 96 % Zurich 77 % Munich 93 % Amsterdam 93 % Tallinn 93 % Zagreb 85 % Rhône-Alpes 68 %
The interaction during the session has helped me to get to know better the point of view and situation of youngsters in the other European countries. 2% 98 %
This event and its preparation have improved my knowledge and awareness of cultural diversity in Europe. 1%
No No opinion Yes
No 93%
99%
This event and its preparation have improved my knowledge and awareness of cultural diversity in Europe. 1%
No No opinion Yes 99%
No No opinion Yes
With this session, I learned to appreciate the values of freedom, liberty and diversity. 2% 4% No No opinion 94% Yes
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I would have liked to receive more input on my topic during the session, e.g. experts, additional information material, etc. 26% 7% 67%
No No opinion Yes
I would have liked to have more time for political debates. 26% 8%
No No opinion Yes
66%
The quality of the evening programme was good. 18% 3% 79%
No No opinion Yes
I would have wished to have more free time. 22% 4% 74%
No No opinion Yes
The total duration of the event was good. 27% 6%
67%
No No opinion Yes
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 70 % Zurich 46 % Munich 62 % Amsterdam 62 % Tallinn 62 % Zagreb 57 % Rhône-Alpes 45 % „Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 52 % Zurich 47 % Munich 62 % Amsterdam 54 % Tallinn 58 % Zagreb 60 % Rhône-Alpes 59 % „Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 87 % Zurich 36 % Munich 85 % Amsterdam 85 % Tallinn 85 % Zagreb 66 % Rhône-Alpes 58 %
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 64 % Zurich 55 % Munich 71 % Amsterdam 84 % Tallinn 82 % Zagreb 77 % Rhône-Alpes 87 % Intercultural dialogue and European co-operation have been promoted and lived during this session. 1% 2% No No opinion Yes 97%
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Comments & Suggestions: - To understand the length of the session you need to identify the absolute necessary elements of the session. 2 days mostly are reserved for travel (arrival, departure), 2 days for GA and 2 more days for teambuilding. This adds up to already 6 days. 4 days of CW provide you with the time to work out a thought through resolution with the expected academic level of an IS. Additionally one day of GA prep is essential to foster good debates and help the delegates to understand other committee topics. - I think the delegates should get a chance to know and see more of the city the session takes place in. So one additional day of the most beautiful sights or history I think could make it better. - The food should be one of the main priorities of sessions. Unfortunately the food's quality was poor and lunch was never enough as the portions were really small. Also in a city like Riga transportation should have been arranged and not to have the delegates to be walking for 30-40 minutes in the snow. - Allowing for a day to rest, reflect, relax and socialise during the session would be beneficial as it can quickly become overwhelming. - Longer sessions , with just the same structure would be amazing. - I feel that the 10 day session would be better. I know that at some sessions there is a free day. I understand that these can sometimes be unproductive because people use it to catch up on sleep, so maybe we could have a free morning and do half a day of committee work starting at, say, 2. This would give us a chance to catch up on sleep/see the city but still have a productive day. - I would like more free time to relax and some time for myself to digest the impressions of the day. I believe that for many people the socialization can become a little intense, and some personal time would improve their experience a lot. This session felt a little hectic, I would definitely like another day, and believe that 10 days would suffice.
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6. Personal development My participation in this session helped to improve my language skills. 10 %
My participation in this session helped to improve my knowledge and understanding of different cultures.
4%
86 %
No No opinion Yes
100 %
My participation helped me appreciate cultural differences and diversity. 4% 2%
My participation in this session made me aware of the diversity of cultures, thoughts, opinions and orientations in Europe. No No opinion Yes
100 %
My participation in this session helped to improve my knowledge of the functioning of the European Parliament. 8% No 1%
No No opinion Yes
94 %
My participation in this session helped to obtain a better understanding of current political developments in Europe. 2% 3% No
No opinion
No opinion
Yes
91%
My participation in this session has raised my preparedness and willingness to be and become an active citizen. 3% 2% No No opinion Yes 95 %
Yes
95%
My participation in this session helped to improve my ability to work in an international team. 1% No No opinion Yes
99 %
My participation in this session made me aware of the activities of the session partners.
My participation in this session helped to improve my participation skills. 6%
92 %
No No opinion Yes
17 % 2%
No No opinion Yes
9 %
No No opinion Yes
74 %
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7. The Future I would like to attend EYP-events in the future. 1 %2 %
No
I will share my experience and insights among friends and fellow students once I am back in my home town. 1%
1%
No
No opinion Yes 97 %
98 %
I want to start an initiative in my school/city/country to promote the awareness for European issues.
I would like to get involved into my EYP National Committee 4%
18 %
21 %
7% No No opinion Yes
No No opinion Yes 61 %
89 %
I would like to get active as a volunteer. 3%
91 %
No opinion Yes
7%
I raised my readiness to contribute to the development of society through active participation after the session. 2%
No No opinion Yes
92 %
6% No No opinion Yes
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8. Chairs, Journalists and Organisers
Organisers
I was always able to find an organiser when I needed help. 9%
1% No No opinion Yes
90 %
The organisers were friendly. 13 % 2 % No No opinion Yes
85 %
The organisers were always able to give me clear and detailed information. 12 % 1% No No opinion Yes 87 %
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 86 % Zurich 81 % Munich 97 % Amsterdam 89 % Tallinn 86 % Zagreb 61 % Rhône-Alpes 63 % „Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 96 % Zurich 91 % Munich 99 % Amsterdam 91 % Tallinn 85 % Zagreb 58 % Rhône-Alpes 64 % „Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 64 % Zurich 65 % Munich 94 % Amsterdam 83 % Tallinn 83 % Zagreb 52 % Rhône-Alpes 36 %
Punctuality
The events and travels during the session happened on time. 61 %
35 % 4%
No No opinion Yes
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 43 % Zurich 88% Munich 96 % Amsterdam 78 % Tallinn 69 % Zagreb 33 % Rhône-Alpes 47 %
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Chairs
Our chair facilitated our work as a committee. 2 %2 % No No opinion Yes
96 %
Our chair was competent and knew what to do. 3%
„Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 96 % Zurich 88 % Munich 96 % Amsterdam 93 % Tallinn 90 % Zagreb 91 % Rhône-Alpes 93 % „Yes“ answers of previous sessions: Tbilisi 99 % Zurich 94 % Munich 97 %
1% No No opinion Yes
96 %
Our chair spent a lot of time with us.
Amsterdam 97 % Tallinn 97 % Zagreb 92 % Rhône-Alpes 97 % Our chair had adequate knowledge of our topic.
11 % 87 %
1%2%
2% No No opinion Yes
97 %
No No opinion Yes
Journalists
I had the feeling that the lack of a media team had the following impact on the session: 4% 8% 47 % Negative No impact Positive No opinion 41 %
I missed not having the output (newspaper, videos, etc.) of a media team at this session. 2 %2 %
96 %
No No opinion Yes
I think the lack of a media team had the following impact on the academic quality of the session: 2 % 4% 22 %
72 %
Negative No impact Positive No opinion
I think the lack of a media team had the following impact on atmosphere of the session: 5% 6% 55 % Negative No impact Positive 34 % No opinion
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Not having a journalist was a ... for my committee. 3% 43 %
7%
47 %
I think there should be a media team at every International Session.
Disadvantage
3 %6 %
Neutral Advantage No opinion
The media aspects that were in place contributed to the session. 4%
84 %
No No opinion Yes
91 %
Involving delegates in the media work of the session is a good thing. 2% 2%
12 % No No opinion Yes
96 %
No No opinion Yes
Comments & Suggestions: - At a certain level every session should have a media team because it not only documents the event and therefore produces memories you can show everyone, it also improves CW with regards to the topic and opens your eyes for new opinions. - Academic and media quality was definitely not the same, however, the session got its own spirit and #RigaIS is still highly appreciated for sharing any thoughts and media material with any other participants! A combination of both a professional media team and the activeness of the session's participants is something desirable for the future! - Photos and videos are the things that stay, they are our memories. I consider not having a media team to be a great disadvantage of the session. - I had never been to an IS, so I didn’t notice a difference, because I simply don’t know the difference, I think delegate participation was a great way to overcome the loss though. - It wasn't too different because the organisers and chairs took pictures. But I personally prefer having a media team at the session. - At Riga I identified with my committee very strongly, and I also reached out and had contact with delegates from other committees. However, I had no feeling of "We are all in this awesome session together." I strongly believe that creating this feeling is what a successful media team does, through the narratives they spin in the newspapers and videos, through the little games they initiate in the free time, and so on. At other sessions I experienced what I lacked in Riga very strongly at the screenings of the videos. - I think it wasn't as negative as many people, myself included, previously expected it to be. There were still pictures and lots of personal contributions from delegates as well as officials sharing them using the session hash tag and on social media in general. While I did slightly miss a newspaper it wasn't a big deal in the end and did not negatively impact my enjoyment of the session. The inclusion of delegates in the making and sharing of media material is a very beneficial thing in my opinion as these are the people who the media at a session is mainly for and about.
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9. Rating
Teambuilding Low
No opinion
Overall impression - how did you like it?
High
Low
No opinion
35 %
70 % 27 %
Eurovillage
75 % 23 %
3%
64 %
34 % 31 %
2%
Importance for the Intercultural dialogue.
Overall impression - how did you like it?
High
26 % 10 %
Importance for the Intercultural dialogue.
Opening Ceremony Low
No opinion
High
44%
43%
49%
45%
40%
35%
11%
17%
16%
Overall impression — how did you like it?
Importance to Importance for the raise my development of a feeling of awareness of European issues. democratic citizenship.
18
Committee Work Low
67%
No opinion
76%
29% 4%
High
66%
76%
21%
23%
3%
1%
31% 3%
Overall Importance Importance to Importance impression — for the raise my for the how did you intercultural awareness of development like it? dialogue. European of a feeling of issues. democratic citizenship.
Committee Dinner Low
83%
No opinion
High
Overall impression — how did you like it?
Low
65%
77%
18%
13% 4%
Euroconcert
5% Importance for the intercultural dialogue.
No opinion
High
55%
31%
29% 6% Overall impression — how did you like it?
14% Importance for the intercultural dialogue.
19
General Assembly Low
61%
74%
37%
High
79%
82%
22%
20%
18%
1%
4%
2% Overall impression — how did you like it?
No opinion
Importance for the intercultural dialogue.
Importance to raise my awareness of European issues.
Importance for the development of a feeling of democratic citizenship.
Evening programme Low
No opinion
High
45% 79%
82%
45% 20%
16% 1%
Overall impression — how did you like it?
53%
Importance for the intercultural dialogue.
2%
10%
Importance to raise my awareness of European issues.
39% 8% Importance for the development of a feeling of democratic citizenship.
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Description Sentences (selected): "The best format for young people to develop themselves." Delegate, Armenia
-
"An experience that made me become more tolerant and influenced how I will act and deal with fellow citizens for the rest of my life." Delegate, Austria
-
"It has been a one-off incredible experience that I am very grateful for as it has improved my academic skills as well as it has been an amazing social event." -
Delegate, Czech Republic
"#RigaIS and the friends I made there are forever in my heart." -
Delegate, Finland
-
Delegate, Georgia
"Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened."
"It was the experience of a lifetime. Cheers to all alumnus, sponsors and delegates." Delegate, Ireland
-
"EYP is the best thing in my life and this session was a great experience as I expected!" -
Delegate, Italy
"The place where I decided I'll do EYP many years from now." Delegate, Romania
-
"It was the best opportunity one could have had to get to know so many people from Europe, debate and become more aware of the current EU issues at the same time. It was a special experience." -
Delegate, Spain
"Riga was a place where 270 strangers from 33 countries split into 15 committees became best friends within a matter of 3 days. Solved the world’s issues and danced the night away." -
Delegate, Sweden
"It was a once in a life time experience." -
Delegates from Austria, Belarus, Cyprus, Finland, Germany, Greece, Latvia, Portugal, Turkey, United Kingdom
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COUNTRIES Number of replies per country (number of participants for this country): Albania: 3 (3) Armenia: 1 (3) Austria: 8 (9) Azerbaijan: 2 (3) Belarus: 3 (4) Belgium: 4 (8) Cyprus: 5 (6) Czech Republic: 4 (6) Estonia: 5 (8) Finland: 8 (9) France: 5 (9) Georgia: 2 (8) Germany: 5 (6) Greece: 4 (7) Ireland: 5 (6) Italy: 6 (8) Kosovo: 2 (2) Latvia: 5 (8) Lithuania: 1 (2) Norway: 6 (9) Poland: 2 (4) Portugal: 5 (7) Romania: 5 (9) Russia: 1 (4) Serbia: 3 (5) Spain: 3 (6) Sweden: 8 (10) Switzerland: 6 (6) The Netherlands: 3 (9) Turkey: 8 (9) United Kingdom: 7 (9) Unidentified: 10
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II. Evaluation by Countries 1. It was easy to find information material for my committee topic.
It was easy to find information material for my committee topic. 100 % 80 % 60 % 40 % 20 % 0%
Yes No opinion No
2. We received letters and information soon enough.
We received letters and information soon enough. 100 % 80 % 60 % 40 % 20 % 0% Yes No opinion No
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3. I knew what to expect, therefore preparation proved to be easy.
I knew what to expect from the session, therefore preparation proved to be easy. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
4. We could reach the EYP contact persons without problems.
We could reach the EYP contact persons without problems. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
24
5. I have visited the session website before the event.
100%
I have visited the session website before the event.
80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
6. The session website provided me with all necessary information.
The session website provided me with all necessary information. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
25
7. We had problems with finding funding and sponsoring for the travel costs and participation fees.
I had problems with finding funding and sponsoring for the travel costs and participation fees. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
8. I do consider the participation fees as reasonable regarding the offerings of the session.
I do consider the participation fees as reasonable regarding the offerings of the session. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
26
9. I used the links in the research document to prepare my committee topic.
I used the links in the research document to prepare my committee topic. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
10. I knew that I was meant to prepare the committee work topic and had informed myself appropriately.
I knew that I was meant to prepare the topic and had informed myself appropriately. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
27
11. I would like to attend EYP events in the future.
I would like to attend EYP events in the future. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
12. I will share my experience among friends and fellow students once I am back in my home town.
I will share my experience among friends and fellow students once I am back in my home town. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
28
13. I want to start an initiative in my school/city/country to promote the awareness for European issues.
I want to start an initiative in my school/city/country to promote the awareness for European issues. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
14. I would like to get involved into my national EYP association.
I would like to get involved into my national EYP association. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
29
15. I would like to get active as a volunteer.
I would like to get active as a volunteer. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
16. I raised my readiness to contribute to the development of society through active participation after the session.
I raised my readiness to contribute to the development of society through active participation after the session. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
Yes No opinion No
30
TEACHERS
31
1. Preparation and Information It was easy to find information material for the committee topics. 4%
4%
We knew what to expect, therefore preparation proved to be easy. 4%
No
No
No opinion
No opinion
Yes
Yes
92 %
96 %
The preparation material provided by EYP was good.
We received letters and information on time. 4%
8% No
No
No opinion
No opinion
Yes
Yes
92 %
96 %
The information for teachers specifally was helpful. 8%
The website provided us with all necessary information and was useful. 4%
No
13 %
No opinion
No opinion
Yes 92 %
Yes
83 %
I do consider the participation fees as reasonable regarding the offerings of the session. 4% 4%
We could reach the EYP contact persons without problems. No
No
No opinion
No opinion
Yes
Yes
92 %
I received quick and good help, when I approached the organisers with a problem. No No opinion 100 %
Yes
No
100 %
Comments & Suggestions: The only thing which I would add is a List of duties and responsibilities of a teachers and chaperons before the commencement of the session. - It would have been helpful for me to be given some information telling me that until the green light there could still be changes regarding the session. - The green light was rather late for the Riga session. I do understand this was due to funding but as the prices of flights were continually increasing, we decided to book the flights before the green light. We subsequently had to book an extra night's and find funding for meals etc. -
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2. General Impression I had the feeling that I can trust the organisers of the session and that my students are in good hands. No
No
No opinion
No opinion
Yes
100 %
I was very worried throughout the session that something bad would happen to my pupils.
I would feel less worried about the safety of my students, if more teachers would be involved in the organisation.
100 %
Yes
The quality of the session program for my students impressed me. 4% No
11 % 89 %
No
No opinion
No opinion
Yes
Yes
I know many other events and organisations that are just like EYP.
96 % I think that my students learnt a lot during this session.
12 % 17 % 71 %
No
No
No opinion
No opinion
Yes
Yes 100 %
I would have liked to take part in such a session when I was a student. 4%
The level of logistics and organisation is very professional. 4% No
No
No opinion
No opinion 96 %
Yes
Yes 96 %
Comments & Suggestions: -
-
I was particularly impressed with the care and immediate response of the orgas when a delegate was experiencing a health issue and how strict they were with the students. We had to get on the bus with heavy suitcases and we had to carry the heavy suitcases from Stockman to the Konventa Seta. It was really disaster. Very impressive. We had a student who was unwell during the session and I cannot fault the help and support we received from organisers who must have been very busy and very tired. Excellent level of care and support. The level of expertise was generally very high. Perhaps some of the chairs were a little too young and inexperienced and struggled to manage the older and more headstrong members of their committee. This should perhaps be carefully considered. However, I had plenty of feedback on chairs who were excellent: intelligent, well prepared and supportive.
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3. Educational Value of EYP The EYP is a wonderful way to increase young people's awareness of European issues.
The EYP is a unique educational experience. No
No
No opinion
No opinion 100 %
Yes
Yes
The practical learning experience at this session is very important and of great value for the students.
100 % My students have learned to work together with other nations for a common good. No
No
No opinion
No opinion 100 %
Yes
Yes
The topics were adequate and interesting.
100 % My students have learned a lot about European politics at this session.
No
No
No opinion
No opinion
Yes
Yes
100 %
100 %
My students have learned a lot about intercultural dialogue at this session.
My students have improved their language skills. 4% 8%
No No opinion
No opinion
Yes
Yes 88 %
100 % My students have learned a lot about democracy at this session.
With this session, they learned to even more appreciate the values of freedom, liberty and diversity.
No
No
No opinion
No opinion
Yes 100 %
No
100 %
Yes
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With this session, they have experienced the advantages of combined expertise from different European countries.
With this session, they have experienced the advantages of combined expertise from different European countries.
No
No
No opinion
No opinion
Yes
100 %
The students went through a non-formal learning experience for active citizenship and intercultural education that is complementing and enriching the normal school education.
100 %
With this session, they have improved their knowledge of the functioning of European public institutions. 4%
No
100 %
No No opinion
No opinion Yes
Yes
Yes
96 %
Comments & Suggestions: -
-
It is truly a unique experience with such a variety of teaching techniques which can definitely be valuable within schools. I am sure that they wish they could study all their lessons in EYP style. My students are native speakers of English, many of whom are studying foreign languages. They were very keen to speak French but were discouraged by their chairs from using French in the GA. I think we should be encouraging a move away from a monolingual society, based purely on English.
4. Teachers’ Programme — General I have raised my awareness and level of knowledge on European topics and institutions. 8%
No
No
No opinion
No opinion
Yes
92 %
I have received ideas on how citizenship and democratic values can be taught in school. 4 %13 %
My participation in this session, helped to establish contacts with teachers from many other European countries.
100 %
There was a good balance between academic, cultural activities and social activities. 4%
No No opinion
83 %
Yes
Yes
No No opinion
96 %
Yes
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If not, please specify which should be emphasised more: 14 %
29 %
The excursions and guided tours were relevant and interesting.
Academic activities
No
Cultural activities
No opinion Yes
Social activities
57 %
100 %
I had enough free time and did not feel forced to attend the organised programme.
I enjoyed the Teachers' Teambuilding and it had a positive impact on the group of teachers. 8%
No No opinion Yes
100 %
The Teachers' workshops raised my awareness of the views and opinions of teachers in the different European countries.
17 %
No opinion
Teachers' Teambuilding and the workshops made me more aware of the functioning and benefit of education methods used in EYP.
12 %
No
Yes
Yes
92 %
No opinion 83 %
No
No No opinion
88 %
Yes
I enjoyed the socialising events organised for the teachers. No No opinion Yes 100 %
Comments & Suggestions: - If I could make a suggestion it would be to mix and match the workshop and tour days so that it is less tiring for teachers who want to participate in everything! One full day of concentration can be spiced up with a wee tour in the afternoon and vice versa. - When there are financial problems with the session, the organisers should feel free to propose visits or outings that the teachers could take part in those outings at their own expense. - I think that all teachers & chaperones should be obliged to attend teambuilding. There were some teachers/chaperones who I hardly ever saw and didn't even know which country they came from. Perhaps the teambuilding should be extended. I also think that while the cultural programme should be optional the educational programme should be mandatory. It would be good if certificates of participation were given to the teachers attending individual workshops because we often need them for our schools. - The workshop led by Andris was one of the most inspiring and relevant I have seen in my career. He is truly amazing! More activities like that, where teachers get to practice how to incorporate EYP working methods into our formal education. 36
5. Impressions of Chairs, Journalists and Organisers The organisers were friendly and competent.
The chairs were competent and knew what to do. 4%
No
17 %
No
No opinion Yes 100 %
No opinion
I consider the length of this session appropriate. 17 % 4%
How long should the International Sessions be? 12 %
No No opinion Yes
79 %
Yes
79 %
46 %
42 %
10 days (like other International Sessions) 9 days (like Riga 2014) Other
I felt the lack of a media had a negative impact on the event 29 %
46 %
25 %
No No opinion Yes
Comments & Suggestions: -
-
-
The length of the session was quite appropriate as it gave enough time for both cultural activities, academic and social. It was a pity that the students did not have enough time to explore Riga, which is a charming city. Therefore, the free day before the general assembly is important and should not be cancelled - if in any way possible. As a teacher I thought it was no problem there was no media team, still I know the delegates appreciate the magazines. Also the opportunity for students to take part as a journo is very valuable. 9 days is easier to plan for regarding teacher and student absence and there still seemed to be a wide range of events and sessions planned. I would say that it would have been nice for the students to have seen a little more of Riga, so maybe that extra day may have been used for that.
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6. Rating
Teachers' Teambuilding 100 % 90 % 80 % 70 % 60 % 50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 10 % 0%
91 %
86 %
95 %
86 % High No opinion
9%
5%
14 %
Overall Importance Importance impression : for the to give how did you intercultural additional like it? dialogue ideas for my amongst teaching. teachers.
14 %
Low
Importance for the networking between teachers.
Eurovillage 100 % 90 % 80 % 70 %
67 %
65 %
61 %
60 %
High
50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 10 %
No opinion 4% 22 % 29 % 13 %
22 %
Low
17 %
0% Overall impression : Importance for the how did you like it? intercultural dialogue amongst teachers.
Importance for the networking between teachers.
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Opening Ceremony
Riga Old Town Tour
100 %
50 %
100 % 80 % 60 % 40 % 20 % 0%
96 % 4% High
0% Overall impression : how did you like it?
No opinion
13 % High
Overall impression : how did you like it?
Low
Tour of the new National Library
87 %
No opinion Low
EYP CafĂŠ at Cafe Piens 100 %
100 %
75 %
86 % 50 %
50 % 14 %
25 %
0% Overall impression : how did you like it?
0%
High No opinion Low
High
Overall impression : how did you like it?
No opinion Low
Euroconcert 100 % 80 %
57 %
57 %
43 %
43 %
60 % 40 % 20 % 0% Overall impression : how did you like it?
Importance to give additional ideas for my teaching.
High No opinion Low
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Challenges and mission of the teacher in the 21st century - Claudio Rivera of RBS
100 % 90 % 80 % 70 % 60 % 50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 10 % 0%
52 %
61 %
High No opinion Low
44 %
39 %
4% Overall impression : how did you like it?
Importance to give additional ideas for my teaching.
Schools Visit - Riga Centre Language School
100 % 90 % 80 % 70 % 60 % 50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 10 % 0%
54 %
58 %
High No opinion Low
42 %
38 % 4% Overall impression : how did you like it?
4% Importance to give additional ideas for my teaching.
40
The education system in Latvia - Martins Kalis
100 % 90 % 80 % 70 % 60 % 50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 10 % 0%
52 %
43 %
High No opinion 44 %
4% Overall impression : how did you like it?
48 %
Low
9% Importance to give additional ideas for my teaching.
Educational Initiatives in Latvia - Marta Tomase
100 % 90 % 80 % 70 % 60 % 50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 10 % 0%
52 %
43 % High No opinion
44 % 4% Overall impression : how did you like it?
48 %
Low
9% Importance to give additional ideas for my teaching.
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Teachers' Dinner 100 % 90 % 80 % 70 % 60 %
91 %
91 %
91 %
High
50 % 40 %
No opinion
30 %
Low
20 % 10 %
9%
9%
9%
0% Overall impression : Importance for the how did you like it? intercultural dialogue amongst teachers.
Evening party at Omas Briljants 100 % 50 %
50 %
42 % High
Overall impression : how did you like it?
0%
0%
Low
61 % 4%
Overall impression : how did you like it?
High No opinion Low
78 % 22 % Overall impression : how did you like it?
No opinion
Workshop at the Science centre
35 %
Sightseeing tour along the Alberta Street 100 %
58 %
0%
100 %
Importance for the networking between teachers.
High No opinion Low
Optional activity: Laima Chocolate Factory 100 %
35 %
50 %
65 %
0%
High Overall impression : how did you like it?
No opinion Low
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General Assembly
100 % 90 % 80 % 70 % 60 % 50 % 40 % 30 % 20 % 10 % 0%
96 %
83 %
High No opinion Low
17 % 4% Overall impression : how did you like it?
Importance to give additional ideas for my teaching.
What did you like the most at this session and what would be your suggestions be for improvements? - Eurovillage: The space (half of a table) provided for each delegation was not enough. Although the ambience of the restaurant was great, it was not really suitable for so many people. You could hardly move and therefore it was difficult to visit the other tables. - The delegations dinner should be free for teachers and their delegates to choose the restaurant to go to. The organization could suggest a place, but then it would be up to delegations to follow the advice, or not. - The delegation dinner should be placed earlier in the session, for instance on Tuesday or Wednesday evening. - Even more time for teambuilding among teachers would be good. Include one trip which takes you to see another area of the country. - I think the delegates should've had a day or half a day of sight-seeing too. Perhaps that could be worked into their teambuilding somehow? - More academic work for the teachers, where the activities and objectives are documented. This would make use of the great opportunity with meeting teachers from other countries, and could be part of our professional development (which we are required to do a certain amount of hours per year). One sentence that best describes the 75th International Session of the European Youth Parliament in Riga: - EYP Riga was a great session in a charming city organised by caring people! - Successfully bringing young people from different backgrounds to discuss common concerns. - Unique experience, excellent organised by responsible, willing, friendly and well prepared young people. - Combination of beautiful city and beautiful people opens new horizons for mutual understanding and trust. - An inspiring whirlwind, which left me exhausted but eager for more. - A truly inspiring and memorable session in a beautiful location. 43