EVALUATION METHODS

Analysis of Kirkpatrick's Four Levels of Evaluation Model

Analysis of Kirkpatrick's Four Levels of Evaluation Model

Introduction

An evaluation model is used for evaluating the training method. These models are used for the evaluation of training sessions that are held in different places. The evaluation is done on the basis of Return on Investment of the training. Whenever a training program is designed and conducted, evaluation is the most difficult task that comes up. Evaluating the training program can be done in many ways, using the different models presented by different writers. This paper will discuss the Kirkpatrick's Four Levels of Evaluation Model. The model will be described in detail with the levels in it (Lin, Et. al 2011).

Kirkpatrick's Four Levels of Evaluation Model

This model is based on four levels of evaluation of a training program. The four levels are explained in detail below:

Reactions

The first level of this evaluation model is reaction. This level tends to measure the reaction of the participants who have participated in the training. The aim of every training program should be to provide the proper information for what the training is intended for, and this will be measured by the evaluation methods. This level will seek to answer the interest of the participants and their perceptions. This level will evaluate the training on the basis whether the participants liked the training or not (businessballs.com). It will evaluate the training with respect to its relevance to the topic. It will make sure that all the participants are evaluated so that the negative effect can be eliminated. This is the most inexpensive level out of the four levels.

Evaluation Methods

The following evaluation methods can be used for evaluating the training program in this level:

Face to face interviews

Interactive exercises

Course of the training

Evaluation sheets

Participants' perception of the training.

Learning

This evaluation is done in two phases i.e. prior to the training and after the training. This is done to examine the level of learning that has taken place in the participants during the training. This evaluation tells the evaluator that what level of training has occurred and how much has the participant learned (cognitivedesignsolutions.com). The first phase will depict the knowledge of the participant and after the training, his answers will tell how much he has learnt and what has he gained from the training. This evaluation helps in bringing improvement in the training program. This level is a bit expensive than the first level.

Evaluation Methods

The following evaluation methods can be used for evaluating the training program in this level:

Pre and post-training comparison tests

Results of projects done during training

Feedback and observation by managers and instructors.

3. Behavior

This level evaluates the transfer of learning that has taken place from the training period to the time the person has transferred back to the job (elearnity.com). This evaluation is done usually after three months of the training program. This level represents the true level of evaluation. This is the most expensive level in this model.

Evaluation Methods

The following evaluation methods can be used for evaluating the training program ...