With the work it takes to implement a training program, it can be difficult to find time and resources to evaluate the effectiveness of it.
Many administrators view evaluation as time-consuming and costly, but they shouldn’t. In fact, by ignoring how well (or poorly) your training program is engaging participants and making a difference in their work, you could be wasting time and money.
Thomas Guskey writes specifically about evaluating professional development programs in his article “Does It Make a Difference? Evaluating Professional Development,” but his “Critical Levels of Professional Development Evaluation” apply to any program without the burden of cost and time.
Good evaluations don’t have to be complicated. They simply require thoughtful planning, the ability to ask good questions, and a basic understanding of how to find valid answers. What’s more, they can provide meaningful information that you can use to make thoughtful, responsible decisions about professional development processes and effects.
Looking for more advice about planning and evaluating your training program? Request a free copy of our e-book CHW E-Learning Strategy Essentials.
