Continuous Evaluation in Ethics Education: A Case Study

Sci Eng Ethics. 2018 Apr;24(2):727-754. doi: 10.1007/s11948-017-9927-x. Epub 2017 Jun 14.

Abstract

A great need for systematic evaluation of ethics training programs exists. Those tasked with developing an ethics training program may be quick to dismiss the value of training evaluation in continuous process improvement. In the present effort, we use a case study approach to delineate how to leverage formative and summative evaluation measures to create a high-quality ethics education program. With regard to formative evaluation, information bearing on trainee reactions, qualitative data from the comments of trainees, in addition to empirical findings, can ensure that the training program operates smoothly. Regarding summative evaluation, measures examining trainee cognition, behavior, and organization-level results provide information about how much trainees have changed as a result of taking the ethics training. The implications of effective training program evaluation are discussed.

Keywords: Ethical decision making; Ethics training; Evaluation; Process improvement.

MeSH terms

  • Curriculum*
  • Ethics, Research / education*
  • Evaluation Studies as Topic*
  • Humans
  • Program Evaluation*