Evaluating training and measuring impact: A tri-county noncredit workforce development program self study

This self-study was commissioned with the purpose of creating an evaluation instrument and methodology to assess the quality of the Workforce Development Division (WDD) workforce training programs. WDD services a tri-county area, and this evaluation is significant as it seeks to assess the perceived quality and effectiveness of workforce training programs being offered. A mixed-methods research design was used to answer three research questions. Research question 1 sought to investigate differences in participant perceptions of WDD training based on service area of attendance. Research question 2 focused on what factors are associated with receiving a job opportunity. Research question 3, focused on identifying ways WDD could improve. These findings indicate that overall participants typically found WDD training to be an effective and quality training program; with differences existing between service areas; increased association with receiving a job opportunity when enrolling to gain skills for a first job, as well as improving the overall quality of life. The quantitative and qualitative data indicate that the presence of barriers that often impede adult learners from completing educational opportunities is small. Specifically, the study offers recommendations to help improve quality and impact of workforce programming. The findings of this research are significant to the body of research related to workforce development training and adult education.