Evaluate your training
Evaluate more precisely
You may need a sophisticated evaluation method if you want to identify the value of training very precisely. If you want to design the evaluation yourself, a classic approach is the Kirkpatrick model of training evaluation. It divides the process of evaluation into four key stages - Reaction, Learning, Behaviour and Results.
| Reaction |
Get feedback from trainees about the training. To get the most complete picture, ask both open-ended and closed questions. Answers to open-ended questions such as What were the main strengths of the training give qualitative data. Closed questions, that give more restricted answers, result in quantitative data. |
| Learning |
Measure skills, knowledge and attitudes before and after training. Observe skills in the workplace or in a specially-designed demonstration, or devise tests to assess knowledge of principles and facts. One approach is to base the measurements on learning outcomes that the training is designed to achieve. |
| Behaviour |
Find out if training has influenced the way a job is done. This can be tricky, especially if the training is in people skills such as leadership and negotiation. What you're looking for is whether the knowledge and skills learned have been transferred into the workplace. Before and after assessments will give the most accurate picture of how things have improved. |
| Results |
Quantitative and qualitative information from the first three stages provides the evidence you need to measure business outcomes. Results should be written up, shared with everyone involved, and fed back into your training strategy. Compare data before and after, leave sufficient time for the training to take effect before you measure outcomes, and repeat the exercise at intervals to see how the benefits are sustained. |
Buy in training evaluation
You can buy commercial software to design training evaluation for you, or bring in a consultant. For information about choosing consultants and evaluating training, view the consultants register at the Institute of Training and Occupational Learning website.
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