TWENTY YEARS OF TRAINING SATISFACTION: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This systematic review aims to synthesize and analyze studies that assess satisfaction with training in the workplace, learning activities, and the factors that affect the level of training satisfaction. Via Google Scholar, we reviewed 81 English language articles published between 2000 and 2020 that examined training satisfaction. Seventeen reviews were included in the final analysis. Training satisfaction articles were identified. Some focused on specific training strategies, while others emphasized a more general approach with mixed strategies. We identified three themes for categorizing the reviewed articles: training satisfaction criteria, impacts of training satisfaction, and factors influencing training satisfaction. Findings revealed that training programs were effective if they met the trainees’ expectations. Some articles focus on Kirkpatrick's classic 4-level evaluation model for measuring training satisfaction. The unit of analysis for all reviews was individual, which explains why, until now, no single study has evaluated the four levels proposed by Kirkpatrick to measure training satisfaction. Furthermore, the selected articles addressed no more than two of the four levels from the Kirkpatrick model (reaction and learning). The remaining levels (behavior and result), which were not addressed in the articles, can be measured by a different unit from an organizational perspective. Training programs should include active, practice-oriented strategies. There should be more focus on the efficacy of trainers, harmony among trainees, course content, relevancy, and training as a life-long process. Several ideas for future research on training satisfaction are suggested.