• An evaluation of training can give employers the information necessary to decide whether workers have achieved desired results.

To make sure that the training program is accomplishing its goals, an evaluation of the training can be valuable. Training should have, as one of its critical components, a method for measuring the effectiveness of the training. When course objectives and content are developed for a training program, a plan for evaluating the training session(s) should be designed and integrated into the program’s other elements. An evaluation will help employers or supervisors determine the amount of learning achieved and whether a worker’s performance has improved on the job.

Among the methods for evaluating training are:

• Student opinion. Questionnaires or informal discussions with workers can help employers determine the relevance and appropriateness of the training program.
• Assessment of student learning. This can be accomplished through such activities as demonstration skills or testing.
• Supervisors’ observations. Supervisors are in good positions to observe a worker’s performance — both before and after the training—and to note improvements or changes.
• Workplace improvements. The ultimate success of a training program may be changes throughout the workplace that result in reduced injury and illness rates.

However it is conducted, an evaluation of training can give employers the information necessary to decide whether workers have achieved the desired results, and whether the training session should be offered again at a future date.