Using evidence-based practices to enhance transfer of training: assessing the effectiveness of goal setting and behavioural observation scales

Abstract

Using evidence-based practices we designed goal setting interventions, used in conjunction with behavioural observation scales (BOS), to facilitate transfer from a 2-day performance coaching programme. A total of 210 managers from public sector organisations took part in the study. Transfer was assessed using self-administered surveys and subordinate feedback (in the form of BOS). Transfer was high across all measures; however, our experimental design did not detect any positive effects for learning or behavioural outcome goals relative to being urged to Do Your Best (DYB). Results suggest that providing managers with BOS that outline the key skills covered in the training programme, having them set goals or urging them to do their best to use these skills back at work, and having workplace colleagues assess their performance at work using these BOS, may be sufficient to bring about transfer.

Keywords:

• transfer
• goals
• behavioural observation scales
• evidence-based practice

Acknowledgments

This research was funded in part through a SSHRC grant to the first author. The authors are grateful for the assistance of Sergio DeLeon and Bronwyn Cass. An earlier version of this paper was presented at the Administrative Sciences Association of Canada. The authors thank Gary P. Latham for his feedback on an earlier version of this paper.