What is it?

In response to growing demand for measurement of training results from clients, training managers and instructional designers, DSA has developed this two-day workshop that combines theory and application in order to equip trainers, instructional designers and managers with the tools and skills they need to build training tests that accurately measure results. Participants learn to measure training outcomes quickly and reliably.

Techniques for writing good test measures of all types are included: True-False, Multiple Choice, Checklists, Matching, Shorts Answers and Essays. A hallmark of DSA training is our emphasis on application. During this workshop, participants design a testing plan for instruction tailored to meet the requirements of their own work environment. They work on projects of their own choosing: revision of testing methods in existing curriculum, testing plans for courses under current development, or preparation for testing in planned/future curriculum. Testing plan development employs criterion-referenced testing principles to match course learning objectives with the most appropriate types of testing procedures.

Using a Test Planning Matrix, participants design a testing plan that evaluates each of their learning objectives. Plans are written so objectives and criterion-referenced test measures match, objectives express the appropriate level within the learning domain, and the criterion-referenced measures evaluate the knowledge, skills or attitudes learners are required to master and use on-the-job.

Benefits to You

You can use the practical ideas from this workshop to make test planning and development easier, faster and more effective.

The techniques you will learn document the test development process, tying every facet of testing into the learning objectives of the training materials.

Save time by doing the job right the first time.

You will learn by doing—by working on your own project and by participating in meaningful group activities.

You will learn systematic test item and testing plan development methodologies that you can use again and again for any type of training.

You will discover and implement testing techniques specifically suited to the instruction under consideration, whether that is cognitive processes or observable psychomotor performance.

You will gain the skills necessary to produce valid and reliable tests.

You will learn specific shortcuts and time-savers for solving testing problems and challenges.

You will take home the Criterion-Referenced Testing Workshop binder, which thoroughly documents each topic with job aids, worksheets, and real-world examples.

Who should attend?

Content experts and trainers who have been given responsibility for developing tests, course evaluations, and/or certification programs.

Course Developers who want a proven strategy for testing instruction.

Managers who want a consistent method for gauging the results of their organization's training programs

Workshop Topics

Day 1

The role of CRT in course development

The relationship between certification and CRT

Instructional Development Model components associated with learner evaluation and program evaluation

How learner evaluation and program evaluation are related and how they complement each other

Distinguishing characteristics of formative and summative evaluations, and related information-gathering methods

Transfer of training measurement techniques

Writing Criterion-Referenced Test Items

Constructed response and selected response test items - definition, advantages and criteria for development

Test item guidelines and evaluation techniques

Test item development using different formats: multiple choice, true/false, matching, checklists, short answers, essays, etc.

Writing Criterion-Referenced Checklists

Product and performance criterion-referenced checklists - distinguishing factors and appropriate applications

Checklist selection, application and critical elements

Checklist format selection to match learning objective requirements

Other checklist uses

Day 2

Writing Tests at the Correct Level

Prescription for matching testing procedures with learning objectives

Learning Objective Components - Definition, Analysis and Development

Learning Objective and Test Item Matching § Cognitive and Psychomotor Learning Domains and Levels

Measuring Attitudes Using Criterion-Referenced Techniques

Designing criterion-referenced testing measures appropriate for affective learning objectives

Self-report and direct observation methods and associated scales

Observable approach behaviors for use with affective objectives

Questionnaire and Likert Scale development utilizing approach behaviors

Developing a Criterion-Referenced Testing Plan

Organization of criterion-referenced tests using the test planning matrix

Identification of objectives for criterion-referenced test items for pretest, prerequisite test, post test, and embedded tests

Checklist assessment of test adequacy

Validity and reliability determinations

Issues in web-based testing

Reservation Information

The price to attend this workshop is $899 which includes:

Two-day workshop, 8:30-5:00 the first day and 8:00-4:30 the second day.

A personal copy of Creating Assessments for Training binder, a step-by-step guide to criterion-referenced test development.

Continental breakfast and refreshments each day.

Register Online for Creating Assessments for Training

Call for in-company pricing and information.