Session Review: Bridging the Gap Between Educational and Business Evaluation

(May 3) Claude Martel of Educonsillium proposes that evaluation methods must consider not just what the individual learned but how this impacts on the organization. It is a given that all organizations must engage in training evaluation. However, the reasons why trainers engage in evaluation do not always link with what organizational leaders are looking for. One reason is that we doe not use the same language – or vocabulary – to examine the impact of training. While the training department looks at learner satisfaction or learning, administrators are more commonly concerned with how the training supports strategic processes and impacts on critical competences.

Martel led a lively discussion and facilitated an examination of how trainers can better understand managers’ needs and how they see training efforts. Much of the disparity is related to our not seeing things in the same way. As trainers we often have to prove the value of what we do, how it links with organizational goals and why it should be supported. As training departments are challenged to align their activities with strategic needs, indicators of success should be remodeled to take into account our new role. This presentation encouraged fruitful reflection on how we all can do our jobs better. I know there are a number of ideas that I will carry with me as I build my career.

Submitted by: Ofelia Ribeiro