Adapting the weights of the Kirkpatrick evaluation model's levels for agricultural training courses

Determining the optimal weights for the four levels of Kirkpatrick's evaluation model (reaction, learning, behavior, results) is a major methodological challenge in assessing agricultural extension training courses. This study aimed to establish locally appropriate weights based on the views of Iranian agricultural extension and education specialists. A quantitative survey was conducted using a researcher-developed questionnaire distributed to ۵۱ Ph.D. experts working in universities, the Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), and Extension Coordination Offices. The most frequently selected weight set (option D) allocated ۱۰% to reaction, ۲۵% to learning, ۳۵% to behavior, and ۳۰% to results. Weighted mean calculations yielded values of ۱۴%, ۲۳%, ۳۲%, and ۳۱% respectively. A theory-driven empirical adjustment was then applied, resulting in final proposed weights of ۱۵% for reaction, ۲۰% for learning, ۳۵% for behavior, and ۳۰% for results. These weights align with Kirkpatrick's theoretical hierarchy (behavior as the most important, reaction as the least) and are supported by expert consensus. The proposed composite effectiveness index is: E = (۰.۱۵xR) + (۰.۲۰xL) + (۰.۳۵xB) + (۰.۳۰xO). Using these weights enables standardized, comparable, and locally relevant evaluation of agricultural extension training effectiveness in Iran.

کلیدواژه ها:

Kirkpatrick model ، weighting ، agricultural extension ، training effectiveness