Adapt or perish: The evaluation of e-Assessment training of faculty at a South African University using Kirkpatrick’s model of training outcomes
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent overnight changes within higher education teaching, learning and assessment, necessitated the introduction of various innovative technologies. In this regard, the North-West University, South Africa, integrated the Cirrus e-assessment software into the institutional learning management system and as part of the pilot test, trained faculty and support staff to utilize the enhanced software. The faculty who attended the training sessions, completed an online questionnaire pertaining questions on Kirkpatrick’s model of learning as well as overall experience. The questionnaire also contained open ended questions regarding the benefits and challenges in using the software, as well as suggestions to improve the training and their intended future action regarding the use of the new e-assessment platform. The findings indicate that faculty had an overwhelming positive reaction and experience of the training, they learned new skills and acquired new knowledge, feel comfortable to apply what they have learned as new behavior, yet did not fully comprehend the full impact of the training and use of the new system. The findings will inform the adaptation to the future training content and sessions.