SHRM-CP Learning, Development & Organizational Effectiveness 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Kirkpatrick's Four-Level Training Evaluation Model assesses training effectiveness at which four levels?
- Reaction, Learning, Behavior, Results (Correct answer)
- Inputs, Outputs, Outcomes, Impact
- Satisfaction, Knowledge, Skills, ROI
- Awareness, Comprehension, Application, Analysis
Correct answer: Reaction, Learning, Behavior, Results
Kirkpatrick's model evaluates training through Reaction (satisfaction), Learning (knowledge gained), Behavior (on-the-job transfer), and Results (business impact).
Question 2: The 70-20-10 learning model suggests that most effective development comes from:
- 70% on-the-job experiences, 20% developmental relationships, 10% formal training (Correct answer)
- 70% formal classroom training, 20% coaching, 10% self-study
- 70% e-learning, 20% seminars, 10% on-the-job practice
- 70% manager feedback, 20% peer learning, 10% external courses
Correct answer: 70% on-the-job experiences, 20% developmental relationships, 10% formal training
The 70-20-10 model holds that the most impactful learning comes from stretch assignments and experience, supplemented by relationships and formal training.
Question 3: Which needs assessment method involves directly observing employees performing job tasks to identify skill gaps?
- Task analysis through observation (Correct answer)
- Focus group discussion
- 360-degree feedback survey
- Organizational analysis of performance data
Correct answer: Task analysis through observation
Direct observation during task analysis captures actual performance gaps in a realistic work context, revealing needs that self-reporting may miss.
Question 4: Return on Investment (ROI) in training is calculated as:
- (Net program benefits ÷ program costs) × 100 (Correct answer)
- (Training hours × hourly wage) ÷ number of participants
- Total revenue growth ÷ training budget
- Employee satisfaction score × productivity index
Correct answer: (Net program benefits ÷ program costs) × 100
Training ROI divides net benefits (total benefits minus costs) by total program costs and expresses the result as a percentage.
Question 5: Succession planning differs from replacement planning primarily because succession planning:
- Develops a pipeline of candidates with long-term growth potential for multiple roles (Correct answer)
- Identifies one specific backup for each key position
- Focuses only on executive-level transitions
- Is conducted only after a departure occurs
Correct answer: Develops a pipeline of candidates with long-term growth potential for multiple roles
Succession planning takes a long-term, talent development approach across multiple roles, while replacement planning simply identifies who steps in immediately when a vacancy occurs.
Question 6: Which learning theory holds that adults are self-directed learners who learn best when content is immediately applicable to their lives?
- Andragogy (Knowles) (Correct answer)
- Pedagogy
- Behaviorism
- Constructivism
Correct answer: Andragogy (Knowles)
Malcolm Knowles' andragogy theory describes adults as motivated, self-directed learners who need content that is relevant to their current roles and challenges.
SHRM-CP Learning, Development & Organizational Effectiveness 1
Kirkpatrick's Four-Level Training Evaluation Model assesses training effectiveness at which four levels?