Measuring training effectiveness

Abstract

This paper examines the effectiveness of a training program offered to 94 trainees at two locations of a training institute in UAE. The researcher extracted the needed data from the records of the institute for the year 2003. The paper focused on trainees’ reactions to the training program (i.e., its materials and instructors) and the level of skills and knowledge gained from the program as the primary measures for effectiveness. Alpha analysis and t-tests were used to judge data reliability and the statistical significance of the measures of effectiveness. A regression analysis was also used to determine the role of perceived training usefulness and a trainee’s effort to gain skills and knowledge in explaining achieved level of effectiveness. The results indicate significant positive reactions to the training program. They also indicate significant increase in trainees’ skills and knowledge as a result of the training. In addition, perceived training usefulness and trainees’ effort to gain skills and knowledge were significant variables in explaining training effectiveness, after controlling for the effects of demographic variables.