Page 97 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 03 11/20/02 11:46 AM Page 86
86 The Creative Training Idea Book
they often do not give enough valuable information to act upon. For that reason, I use
open-ended questions with a few closed-ended ones to gather statistical information
(see Table 3-1).
The advantage of using surveys is that you can gather large numbers of responses
simultaneously and have a written record of actual comments for analysis and future
reference. It is a good idea to leave space at the bottom of your questionnaire for gen-
eral comments or questions related to the program.
When developing your survey, try to involve supervisors of your attendees to get their
input and buy-in early in the process. Failure to do so might lead to lost support later.

Walk Around/Observation

If you will be training many members of a team or department, one very helpful tech-
nique that I use for determining knowledge and skill needs is to visit their work site and
observe behavior. While there, you can get to know participants before the training, as
well as ask questions of them. You can also potentially speak to their supervisors and
customers. A big advantage of this technique is that you develop rapport and recognition
with learners before training.

Table 3-1. Sample Assessment Questions

Here is a list of potential questions to get your interviews, focus groups, or surveys started. Some
or all might be appropriate to your situation.

1. Related to the training topic, what would help you better perform your job?
2. What skills do you need to gain or improve to increase workplace effectiveness?
3. From a growth perspective, what do you hope to learn during the training?

4. What knowledge or skills would someone else say that you need to obtain in order to
increase your effectiveness?
5. What training techniques do you find to be most effective? Why?

6. What training techniques do you find to be least effective? Why?
7. What is one thing that you hope to learn during the training? (Be specific)
8. What do you hope does not occur during the training?
9. If you were facilitating the program, what would you be sure to include? Why?
10. What can you do to ensure that this program adds value for you and your organization?