Inservice trainings for Shiraz University of Medical Sciences employees: Effectiveness assessment by using the CIPP model

INTRODUCTION Nowadays, the employees` in-service training has become one of the core components in survival and success of any organization. Unfortunately, despite the importance of training evaluation, a small portion of resources are allocated to this matter. Among many evaluation models, the CIPP model or Context, Input, Process, Product model is a very useful approach to educational evaluation. So far, the evaluation of the training courses mostly provided information for learners but this investigation aims at evaluating the effectiveness of the experts' training programs in SUMS and identifying its pros and cons based on the 4 stages of the CIPP model. METHOD In this descriptive analytical study, done in 2013, 250 employees of SUMS participated in in-service training courses were randomly selected. The evaluated variables were designed using CIPP model and a researcher-made questionnaire was used for data collection; the questionnaire was validated using expert opinion and its reliability was confirmed by Cronbach's alpha (0.89). Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS 14 and statistical tests was done as needed. RESULTS In the context phase, the mean score was highest in solving work problems (4.07±0.88) and lowest in focusing on learners' learning style training courses (2.68±0.91). There is a statistically significant difference between the employees` education level and the product phase evaluation (p<0.001).  The necessary effectiveness was not statistically significant in context and input level (p>0.001), in contrast with the process and product phase which showed a significant deference (p<0.001). CONCLUSION Considering our results, although the in-service trainings given to sums employees has been effective in many ways, it has some weaknesses as well. Therefore improving these weaknesses and reinforcing strong points within the identified fields in this study should be taken into account by decision makers and administrators.