Teaching Paper: Evaluating Training Programs Effectively – Using Surveys and Observation Checklists to Measure Learning Outcomes

Teaching Paper: Evaluating Training Programs Effectively – Using Surveys and Observation Checklists to Measure Learning Outcomes

Author: Dr. Anna Neya Kazanskaia
Publisher: NEYA Global Publishing
Article | NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies
Year: 2025
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5669-1676

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-eth-rs-eth-dt-an-14


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About the Article

Evaluation is a critical element of the training cycle, enabling non-profits to measure outcomes, strengthen accountability, and refine program design. This article introduces two accessible tools—the Post-Training Survey and the Observation Checklist—that capture both participant feedback and observed behaviors. Drawing on evaluation frameworks from Patton, Kirkpatrick, and Scriven, it emphasizes the importance of combining multiple data sources to create a holistic understanding of training effectiveness. Case studies from practice show how these tools can identify gaps in engagement, reshape session design, and improve both participant satisfaction and learning outcomes. By translating established theory into practical instruments, the article provides academics and practitioners with scalable methods for evaluating training in resource-constrained environments.

Key Topics

  • Training program evaluation in non-profits
  • Post-training survey design and use
  • Observation checklists for monitoring engagement
  • Linking evaluation to organizational learning
  • Accountability and continuous improvement
  • Practical frameworks for resource-constrained contexts

Suggested Citation

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Teaching Paper: Evaluating training programs effectively – Using surveys and observation checklists to measure learning outcomes. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-eth-rs-eth-dt-an-14

References

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Training for Impact: Building Skills. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/training-impact-2025
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Training: Evaluation and Impact Assessment. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/training-evaluation-impact-2025
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Program Development and Evaluation: Maximizing Impact. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/program-development-evaluation-2025
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Capacity Building in Developing Countries. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/capacity-building-in-developing-countries-2025
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Program Evaluation and Impact Measurement in Non-Profit Training Initiatives. NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-tr-imp-bl-sk-07
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Analyzing Evaluation Data: Methods, Integration, and Application in Nonprofit Programs. NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-tr-ev-imp-as-06
Kirkpatrick, J. D., & Kirkpatrick, W. K. (2016). Kirkpatrick's four levels of training evaluation. ATD Press.
Patton, M. Q. (2008). Utilization-focused evaluation (4th ed.). SAGE.
Scriven, M. (1991). Evaluation thesaurus (4th ed.). SAGE.
Rossi, P. H., Lipsey, M. W., & Freeman, H. E. (2004). Evaluation: A systematic approach (7th ed.). SAGE.
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September 27, 2025