Training is most effective when trainees have clearly defined learning objectives, when they use focused content to reach those objectives, and when they are measured and receive feedback on their performance.
There are a number of step you must take if you want to measure the results of a business English or professional language training course.
1. Clearly defined learning goals:
The first step in measuring the results or measuring progress in a business English training course is to have clearly defined learning goals. If you don't have a clearly defined and realistic learning goal in a short course, it's almost impossible to realistically measure if a trainee has made progress. For example, it's very difficult to clearly measure if a trainee has 'improved her English'.
However, with a clearly defined learning goal and with the correct assessment tools, it's easy to measure whether a trainee has improved her ability, for example, 'to effectively ask questions and make comments on a conference call'.
2. Focused learning content:
When you've decided on the learning goals, the next step is to make sure that the learning content focuses 100% on achieving that learning goal. Content must be designed specifically for that learning goal. This content must be well-designed and highly focused.
3. Detailed Assessment Tools:
Having clearly defined learning goals and focused learning content makes it possible to evaluate each trainee's performance. This can be done effectively using language assessment rubrics. Designing a rubric for each learning goal allows the trainer to record information about each trainee's performance.
Summary:
Clearly defined learning goals - Focused learning content - detailed assessment tools
