Evaluation: Step 2
In step 1, you reviewed the goals and objectives
of the training, and determined what questions to ask based on the four
levels of evaluation. In step 2 you need to choose appropriate
strategies to collect the data. Some useful types of information are discussed
below, but you should remember that your knowledge of your context, imagination
and inventiveness are excellent sources of other useful indicators of
success (TIP, 1990).
So, you've collected your data. You now need a method of translating the results into improvements for the next offering; if, of course, there will be a next time.
In many cases, a higher-level decision will be made as to whether or
not the course will be offered again. This judgment will often be made
based on the evaluation outputs as reported to management. If the course
was worthwhile and accomplished its goals, as well as broader organizational
goals, you need a way to communicate this to others. This is best done
in the form of a final report, the creation of which is discussed in the
next lesson.