Podcast, Workplace Learning

Learner Surveys and Learning Effectiveness, with Will Thalheimer

Written by

Karan Hotwani

In a recent installment of the L&D GoBeyond podcast, host Amit Garg skillfully guides listeners through an insightful conversation with Will Thalheimer. Will, Ph.D., MBA, a distinguished consultant, speaker, researcher, and founder of Work-Learning Research, shares his extensive expertise in instructional design, training, and consulting. The episode unravels the tapestry of research-based practices, the importance of learning interventions, and Thalheimer’s approaches to learning evaluation.

Will challenge industry norms by emphasizing evidence-based practices. The heart of the discussion revolves around the Learning Transfer Evaluation Model (LTEM), an eight-tiered framework that surpasses conventional models like Kirkpatrick’s. Delving into the strengths and weaknesses of existing models, the conversation underscores the continuous improvement needed in learning design through rigorous evaluation and evidence-based approaches.

Key Takeaways:

Learning Evaluation: Discusses the Learning Transfer Evaluation Model for continuous improvement.
Challenges of the Four-Level Model: Talks about common misuses and stresses the importance of guideposts.
Effective Survey Methodology: Addresses limitations of smile sheet ratings with distinctive questions for actionable data.
Broadening Evaluation: Encourages a comprehensive approach beyond surveys for holistic evaluation.
Measuring Learning Impact: Cautions against relying solely on surveys and explores alternatives like trials and success case methods.
Stealth Messaging in Surveys: Highlights the impact of survey questions on shaping organizational practices.
Neuroscience in Learning Design: Acknowledges neuroscience’s power but advocates pairing it with learning sciences.

Guided by the insightful Will Thalheimer provides a deep dive into the world of learning and development. From challenging myths to introducing innovative evaluation models, Thalheimer’s contributions offer a compass for navigating the evolving landscape of learning and development. This episode serves as a beacon for those seeking evidence-based practices and continuous improvement in their learning initiatives.

Listen to the audio version: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1830336/14553470-learner-survey-and-learning-effectiveness-with-will-thalheimer

Access all our podcasts here: https://www.upsidelearning.com/podcast-season1/