TRAINING RESEARCH AND EVALUATION

Why evaluate training effectiveness?

The purpose of this research is to understand the multiple factors influencing occupational education and training effectiveness. NIOSH evaluates the audience impact of training programs and their components by investigating:

• Theoretical models gleaned from health promotion, psychology, learning and educational perspectives
• The role of attitudes, beliefs, behavioral intentions, and other characteristics of the individual that affect learning and transfer of learning into action
• Barriers affecting adoption of health and safety behaviors promoted by training
• Environmental influences on occupational safety and health training

The results of effectiveness research are often used to improve a safety training program and/or safety training product. Researchers determine the optimal approach or media to be used to communicate and educate audiences about occupational safety and health issues. The effects of these improvements to training programs/products is demonstrated through increased audience awareness of a particular set of health risks, modification of a set of behaviors, development of sound workplace safety practices, or modifications to the work environment.

Tools and Methods Used in Evaluation

• Audience surveys
• Focus groups
• Computer-based laboratory testing
• Development of training materials from brochures to videos
• Field studies
• Statistical analyses
• Education and curriculum development