Using needs assessment strategies for effective workshops

Summary

• •Although a workshop needs assessment does take time, the alternative of doing nothing creates a high risk of serious and costly errors.

• •It is possible to begin a workshop needs assessment from the first contact by using the Initial Checklist.

• •The workshop needs assessment may use a variety of different strategies, depending upon the purpose of the workshop and the constraints upon the developer. Further, using more than one needs assessment strategy will help determine the accuracy of the information.

• •The way needs assessment questions are asked will greatly influence the quality and accuracy of information.

• •Some workshop needs assessment strategies are more complex and demanding than others. However, by asking questions about the amount of time available, the level of confidence and the cost-benefits of various strategies, instructional developers can tailor-make a needs assessment plan to assist in the planning of effective workshops.