Training Needs Analysis & Program Design Flashcards

Which needs analysis technique is most useful for identifying the critical incidents that separate high performers from average ones?

Answer: Critical Incident Technique

The Critical Incident Technique collects specific examples of effective and ineffective behavior to pinpoint key performance drivers.

A front-end analysis is conducted primarily to:

Answer: Determine whether training is the appropriate solution before investing in development

Front-end analysis validates the problem and solution type before resources are committed to training.

Which option is an example of a non-training solution to a performance gap?

Answer: A job aid or checklist placed at the workstation

Job aids support performance at the point of need without requiring formal instruction.

What does a training program's 'terminal objective' describe?

Answer: The overall performance learners should achieve by the end of the program

A terminal objective states the end-of-program performance, supported by enabling objectives.

When designing training for adult learners, which principle from Knowles' andragogy should guide the design?

Answer: Adults are motivated by relevance and want to apply learning to immediate problems

Andragogy holds that adults are problem-centered and learn best when content is relevant to their roles.

A needs analysis shows only 5 employees need a specialized skill, and it is rarely used. Which delivery option is often most cost-effective?

Answer: Send them to external or vendor-provided training

For small, infrequent needs, buying external training typically costs less than building custom programs.

Which document typically summarizes needs analysis findings, recommended solutions, costs, and expected outcomes for leadership approval?

Answer: Training proposal or business case

A training proposal or business case presents findings and justifies the investment to decision makers.