Employing Kirkpatrick's evaluation framework to determine the effectiveness of health information management courses and programs.

Evaluation of the impact and effectiveness of courses is necessary so that strengths and weaknesses can be identified and improvements made. This article uses Kirkpatrick's evaluation framework to present a model that health information management (HIM) instructors can use to improve upon the standard course evaluation form. Kirkpatrick's model stresses evaluation on the levels of reaction, learning, behavior, and results. The proposed course evaluation model addresses the first three of these levels and focuses on the conditions necessary for transfer of learned knowledge and skills into on-the-job application. The article provides concrete tips that HIM instructors can apply in the process of evaluating the effectiveness of their courses and programs.