Data+Collection

=Data Collection=

Questionnaires and Surveys
Surveys or questionnaires are the most common data collection method. They give you measurable results, they are inexpensive and quick to administer, and they can be very accurate and unbiased. To learn more about survey design, read the article “Evaluating Evaluations”—click this link to get the article: HR Magazine - June 2002: Agenda/Training & Development: Evaluating Evaluations @http://moss07.shrm.org/Publications/hrmagazine/EditorialContent/Pages/0602agn-traindev.aspx

For more on survey design, see the Survey tutorial. Also see the sample of level 1 questions. Click on this link for the sample: @http://cte.jhu.edu/mtcadmin/documents/questionnaire.pdf and the Trainee Reaction Questionnaire—click this link: @http://www.themeasurementgroup.com/modules/mods/module54.pdf Also investigate online surveys at www.zoomerang.com.

Measuring Learning Outcomes
To measure learning outcomes, first revisit your objectives. Make certain that 1) you have met the objectives in your course and 2) You have devised ways for your learners to demonstrate their knowledge of the objectives. We immediately think "Test" or "Quiz," but many adult learners react poorly to testing situations, but may perform well. Consider the wide array of methods of measuring learning. There are a variety of classroom assessment techniques that can be adapted to training environments. Often Training Closers can be excellent ways to measure knowledge and performance while adding fun and excitement to the end of the program. Here are a few sites to explore for ideas: Closers or Review Exercises Thiagi's Play for Performance newsletter Results through Training (Select "Trainer Kits" then "Free Downloads" and the "Ways to Close a Session" Active Reviewing (Scroll down to yellow box (#1) and choose "Archives") Also see the Evaluation Checklist that follows for a quick reference.