of Training IDENTIFIERS *South Africa

A South African study examined how paraprofessionals were prepared to conduct life skills training. The study, which was designed from an ecosystemic perspective, was conducted in three phases. During phase 1 (1990), the professional members of the research team conducted six assertiveness training and parenting education groups in the community. During phases 2 and 3 (1991-1992), the research team conducted training courses for paraprofessionals in assertiveness and parenting skills and monitored the "spread " of skills into the community by making personal visits to new groups and holding feedback meetings with trainees. By the end of the 1-year follow-up period, the 23 people originally trained had disseminated the knowledge gained during their training to approximately 300 people. The trainees had implemented various activities, including courses, workshops, and meetings. The trainees ' success in spreadin