Jan 13, 2010

When Training Works, and Why (Half the Time) It Doesn't

Ever wonder why some training makes a difference in performance on the job, while other times people just report having learned a few interesting concepts? How often does new knowledge translate into applied skills?  The World Bank conducted an evaluation of project-based training to see what they’re getting for the $720 million they spend annually on training for development. Among their findings:

  • Most training participants learned something, but only about half of training efforts resulted in actual change.
  • Where training failed, it was because of poor design or insufficient attention to building institutional context.
  • Adequate training design involves three characteristics—opportunities to practice what you learn, on-the-job reinforcement, and training material that’s actually based on organizational needs.

publication available online: Using Training to Build Capacity for Development

Posted by Lindsey Graham at 05:00 PM

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