Hi everyone,
What are the differences among the three concepts of measuring training, assessing training, and evaluating training?
Measuring training
The use of an instrument to acquire information that pertains to learning and development in the workplace. “It simply means determining the attributes or dimensions of an object, skill or knowledge” (STU Online, 2018). Generally, when I think about measurement, the first thing that comes to mind is a ruler. A ruler serves many purposes, one of which is to measure an object. Analogously, an instrument can be used to measure training in the workplace.
Assessing training
The assessment of training in the workplace is typically aligned to strategic goals and objectives. Kizlik (2012) noted that “a test or assessment yields information relative to an objective or goal”. As such, an L&D professional designs an assessment to determine if goals and objectives were achieved.
Evaluating training
The evaluation of training would be based on criteria and contextual factors. Generally, the evaluation process is situational and various variables are taken into account.
Kizlik (2012) summed up the differences between measurement, evaluation, and assessment quite nicely specifically noting that “we measure distance, we assess learning, and we evaluate results in terms of some set of criteria”.
How can each of these concepts be accomplished?
Measuring training
Performance appraisal
Assessing training
Tests and quizzes
Evaluating training
Observation
Which concept would you use if you were asked to measure the effectiveness of training? Why?
Assessment
Learning and development in the workplace should be aligned with organizational goals and objectives. Abu Mansor et al. (2012) pointed out that “it is important that formal learning solutions always are designed to improve the capabilities of people and enhance the performance of the organization”. Assessing employees will therefore help determine if the goals and objectives of the organization are being met as well as its impact on employees’ attitudes, behavior, and overall performance.
I will wrap up this week’s conversation by sharing my visual with you which highlights the differences between these concepts.
As always, I look forward to your feedback!
Krista
MDE student
University of Maryland Global Campus
University of Maryland Global Campus | UMGC
References
Abu Mansor, N.N., Saidi, M.I., Mohamed, Al., & Idris, N. (2012). Organizational factors in learning & development initiatives. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 40, 565-570. Retrieved from http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877042812006982
Importance of educational measurement, assessment and evaluation. (2018). STU Online. https://online.stu.edu/degrees/education/ms-ed-leadership/educational-measurement-assessment-evaluation/
Kizlik, B. (2012, December 9). Measurement, assessment, and evaluation in education. Retrieved from www.adprima.com/measurement.htm