Measuring the Impact of Workplace Learning: A Practical Industry Perspective

<p dir="ltr">This conceptual paper presents a systematic and practical approach to evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of Workplace Learning (WpL) solutions, including WpL programs and consultancy projects. Despite extensive investment in training, as cited by Jasson and Govender (2017), less than 10% of what is learned in training courses is applied effectively to enhance performance and business results. This underscores a need for robust evaluation approaches. In the context of SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) and the National Centre of Excellence for Workplace Learning (NACE), it is crucial for organisations embarking on Workplace Learning and projects to implement evaluation model(s) to assess the impact of WpL initiatives on the organisations. This paper adopts Kirkpatrick's Four Levels of Evaluation as a structured framework, demonstrating its practical application through real-world case studies of workplace learning and projects completed for organisations. Key challenges and practical considerations encountered during the implementation of the evaluation model are highlighted, offering actionable insights into how a proper evaluation can be performed to measure the transfer of learning into the workplace resulting in enhanced learner performance and business results. Does an overall score of 4.2 out of 5 in an end-of-course survey (Kirkpatrick's level 1) show better learner performance and business results? The discussion in the paper aims to equip Learning & Development professionals with strategies to navigate potential pitfalls and maximise the results or return on investment from WpL initiatives, aligning outcomes with organisational goals and business performance.</p>