The Kirkpatrick Model is the worldwide standard for evaluating the effectiveness of training. This is still considered the gold-standard of evaluation because of its simplistic yet effective nature. Created by Dr. Don Kirkpatrick in the 1950s. The model is applied before, during and after training to both maximize and demonstrate training’s value to the organization.
Reaction – participants find the training favorable, engaging and relevant to their jobs.
In the light of technology Reaction is by far the most relevant for adult learners If we were to focus purely on online delivery. We could use assessments, forums, chat or even video conferencing to gauge reaction. We will know the literacy and experience of your students very early in the delivery of the course.
Learning – participants acquire the intended knowledge, skills, attitude, confidence and commitment based on their participation.
We could use online interviews or even phone / video interviews (dependent on the student’s digital literacy) to bridge the gap in understanding the level of learning. Human engagement (albeit using technology) will always reduce the gap when dealing with adult learners participation.
Behavior – participants apply what they learned during training when they are back on the job
We can take and record notes against the student’s records. Have a predefined set of questions ready. We will be able to gauge very quickly how they’re going.
Results – The targeted outcomes occur as a result of the training and the support and accountability package
360-degree feedback is a tool that many businesses use. As a matter of fact, I use this tool before and after the training is conducted for the training efficacy purposes.
Earlier this year LinkedIn surveyed 500 L&D professionals. One of the biggest challenges they face is showing the ROI of their learning solutions. The model can help with that – thinking through it backwards – we can show more ROI with the learning solutions, which can give us a much higher chance of getting funding and appreciation for more learning solutions moving forward.
References
Kurt, S. “Kirkpatrick Model: Four Levels of Learning Evaluation,” in Educational Technology, October 24, 2016. Retrieved from https://educationaltechnology.net/kirkpatrick-model-four-levels-learning-evaluation/
Kirkpatrick, D. L. (1994). Evaluating training programs: the four levels. San Francisco: Berrett-Koehler.
Alliger, G.M., Janak, E.A. (1989). Kirkpatrick’s levels of training criteria: Thirty years later. Personnel Psychology, 42(2):331–342.
September 15, 2019 at 2:01 pm
Hi Tehreem,
I appreciate the approach you’ve taken with this assignment! From the very early days in my career in learning and development, the area of evaluation has been of particular interest. And Kirkpatrick’s model has without question been immensely valuable in providing a reliable methodology.
Of course, some would argue that assessment shouldn’t be the focus of learning initiatives, and I would agree, but without any means to evaluate, results can be interpreted in any number of ways. I would add that in the context of the ADDIE model, the evaluation stage becomes part of the whole, rather than a siloed segment.
If you’re interested, here’s a link I found that is interesting, and also, provides some criticism to think about, too. https://opentextbc.ca/teachinginadigitalage/chapter/6-5-the-addie-model/
I’d suggest that the ADDIE model is best used as a moveable system. (It’s often interpreted as a linear process, which is limiting.) Instead, I view it as an overall structure that keeps me on track. I would for instance, evaluate throughout the design/development stages and re-evaluate each iteration, and so on.
Clearly this ‘stuff’ appeals to the analytical geek in me so thank you for giving me the opportunity to ‘gush’ about evaluation 🙂
Cheers
Sue
September 16, 2019 at 8:46 am
Hey Sue, happy Monday! thank you for your detailed response. I enjoyed the link about ADDIE. I am a huge fan of this learning theory and our ID experts at work do use it in a lot of course development. I am happy to find a kindred spirit who shares the significance of ADDIE & Kirkpatrick model. Both of these methodologies works in my environment. Glad that my blog was able to get your analytical geek interested and excited about the topic.