In defence of post-course evaluations: Going beyond the smile sheet

Abstract

Post course evaluation is equated with the 'Smile Sheet' in the minds of most trainers, and as such it is not held in high repute but rather regarded as something of a joke. In this article the author demonstrates how post course evaluation is an excellent means of obtaining in depth data about course participants' learning, skill development and behaviour change. The difference between the 'Smile Sheet' and effective post course evaluation is in the systematic approach to the design of the questions. A methodology to guide this design is outlined, and sample questions from post course evaluations are given.