Evaluation considers the success of training and is necessary for identifying elements of training processes and training programs that were beneficial and areas for improvement. The most effective evaluation is not initiated following the end of a training session, but rather occurs throughout the training process. A plan for evaluation should be built into the plan for training from the beginning, and the results of evaluation should be communicated in order to inform future efforts.

 

It is important to determine up front the type(s) of evaluation that will be conducted. Within this section, two types of evaluation are highlighted: process evaluation and outcome evaluation. Process evaluation focuses on how well the elements of the training were conducted, while outcome evaluation focuses on whether the training elicited the desired results.

 

When performing evaluation, it is also important to acknowledge both the potential and the limitations of training. Success within public health is dependent on a variety of factors, not all of which can be influenced by even the most effective training efforts.

 

Strategies and methods in this section address planning for evaluation, conducting evaluation, and reporting the results of evaluation.

 

Explore evaluation strategies and methods in three areas: