Training Needs Analysis & Evaluation

PREREQUISITE:  None

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This graduate-level course offers a comprehensive exploration of the processes, methodologies, and principles essential for identifying organizational training needs and evaluating the effectiveness of learning initiatives. Students will develop practical skills to conduct Training Needs Analysis (TNA), assess workforce competencies, and uncover performance gaps to align training initiatives with strategic organizational goals. Simultaneously, the course provides an in-depth examination of learning evaluation and assessment, equipping students with the theoretical foundations and practical tools necessary to measure the effectiveness of training programs, educational initiatives, and learning interventions. This integrated approach ensures that students can design, implement, and evaluate training strategies that drive measurable performance improvements and support organizational success.

ACQUIRED SKILLS:

• Conducting Training Needs Analysis (TNA)
• Evaluating Learning Outcomes
• Using Assessment Tools and Techniques
• Reporting and Communicating Results

UPON COMPLETION OF THE COURSE, THE STUDENT WILL BE COMPETENT IN:

• Analyzing organizational systems and performance metrics to identify skill gaps and training needs at individual, team, and organizational levels.
• Applying data collection techniques such as interviews, focus groups, surveys, and job task analyses to gather relevant information for a comprehensive Training Needs Analysis (TNA).
• Differentiating between training and non-training interventions to address performance deficiencies and recommend appropriate interventions.
• Evaluating the alignment of training needs with organizational goals and strategic objectives to ensure meaningful and impactful training outcomes.
• Designing and present a TNA report that synthesizes findings and provides actionable recommendations to stakeholders.
• Assessing the challenges and best practices for implementing a TNA in diverse organizational contexts, including managing stakeholder expectations and overcoming resistance.
• Developing evaluation frameworks to measure the effectiveness and impact of learning programs using models such as Kirkpatrick’s Four Levels of Evaluation and Phillips’ ROI Model.
• Utilizing qualitative and quantitative methods to assess learner performance and program outcomes, ensuring comprehensive and reliable results.
• Analyzing the alignment of learning objectives with organizational goals and stakeholder expectations to ensure training relevance and strategic value.
• Applying data analysis techniques to interpret evaluation results and make data-driven recommendations for program improvement.
• Examining ethical considerations and challenges in learning evaluation, including issues related to data integrity, bias, and stakeholder influence.
• Exploring the use of artificial intelligence in the training development field