Evaluation of Training: Much Lauded, Seldom Applauded

Levels of evaluation: Beyond Kirkpatrick

“…Evaluation is essential, so we had better use it wisely Uhfortunately, it is seldom either used wisely or used to answer the most vital questions that face every organization. It is an underutilized endeavor that is often inappropriately applied and that sometimes has harmful results (Keller and Moller, 1983). We suggest that there are at least three reasons for this: (1) the most-used definitions and models of evaluation often are too restricted, (2) we do not ask the right questions for evaluation to answer, and (3) the relationship between ends and means is not made clear in the evaluation, planning, and implementation processes.A more effective approach to evaluation will encompass an expanded concept of evaluation that includes result-related questions that contribute to continuous improvement by comparing intentions with results.…”