Evaluate Human Resource Training Programs to Determine Effectiveness

Candidates cannot hold PHR Professional in Humanprograms might include determining whether or not to
Resources and SPHR Senior Professional in Humancontinue a program and to assess the importance (or
Resources certifications at the same time. Thecontinuation) of a training department by showing how
certification shows mastery of the HR body ofit contributes to the company's objectives and goals.
knowledge as outlined by the Society of HumanTo improve a training program, focus on eight key
Resources. Candidates should consider if certificationareas when you conduct an evaluation:
meets their individual needs at this time. The exam1. How well does the subject matter meets the needs
itself is quite intensive and covers a wide range of HRof attendees? 2. Is the current leader the best-qualified
knowledge from laws protecting employees toperson to teach the program? 3. Does the leader use
complex compensation plans. An example of a futurethe most effective methods for maintaining interest
exam question is the best situations to train employeesand teaching the content you want taught? 4. Are the
in so learning can easily take place. Select the facilitiesfacilities satisfactory? 5. Is the schedule appropriate for
Choose facilities that are appropriate, comfortable, andparticipants? 6. Are the teaching aids (audio-visuals,
convenient. Avoid rooms that are too small, noisy, oretc.) effective in holding participants' interest and
stuffy, or have uncomfortable furniture. Avoid placesimproving communication? 7. Was the program was
that are too hot or cold, or that have inconvenientcoordinated effectively? 8. What can you or the
locations. Select the instructors. Instructors should knowtrainer do to improve the program?
the subject, enjoy teaching, communicate well, and beMost trainers use reaction sheets, which come in
effective at getting people to participate. Seekdozens of formats. Determine what you want to find
"learner-oriented" instructors who are focused onout and design a survey form and scoring sheet to
meeting the needs of your trainees. Select andquantify reactions specifically along those lines.
prepare audio-visual aids Audio-visual aids helpEncourage participants to write down their comments
participants stay interested and encourageand suggestions. Strive for a 100% immediate
communication. Coordinate the program In someresponse. Encourage an honest response by telling
cases, an outside trainer will handle the coordinationparticipants not to write their names on their evaluation
details and will teach. In other cases, you or others informs. You can develop acceptable standards several
your organization will assist with the details ofways, such as tabulating responses to get a baseline
coordination, such as arranging for meals and forrating. Then, measure your reactions against these
materials such as flip charts, handouts, and reactionstandards, and act accordingly to improve the program
surveys. Evaluate the program - Plan your approachif necessary. Finally, communicate these reactions as
to evaluating the program's effectiveness.appropriate to the program trainer or top management,
You want to evaluate training programs to determineso the program can be modified or continued based
how effective they have been and how you mighton these results.
further improve them. Other reasons for evaluating