Internal Validation

Our DSAT Consultants have extensive experience in the conduct, development and implemntation of Internal Validation.

The process of the Defence Systems Approach to Training (DSAT) Internal Validation is used by training management to determine the efficiency and effectiveness of training delivery. To achieve this, InVal is focused in order to measure the immediate reaction of an individual (to a training event) through an after action review and the learning transfer achieved by the training activity.

Within Defence Systems Approach to Training Qality Standards (DSAT QS), a system of training validation is used to ensure that the processes and products of training meet the operational training requirement.

Training Validation uses both qualitative and quantitative data in order to ascertain whether training effectiveness and efficiency has been achieved and is the process used to inter-connect the elements of the DSAT training cycle. Training Validation is divided into 2 forms, known as Internal Validation (InVal) and External Validation (ExVal).

InVal Process

The InVal process involves personnel from a range of backgrounds including Course Designers (or Course Design Teams), Training Managers, Instructors and Trainees. Their involvement can be summarised as follows:

Course Designers - During the course design phase, course designers or course design teams may be tasked by the Training Sponsor to design the InVal process for a particular course, as part of the Evaluation Strategy. They may also be required to make changes to a system of InVal following feedback from any of the other parties involved in the process.

Training Managers - Training Managers have responsibility for ensuring that all elements of an InVal system are implemented in accordance with the course Evaluation Strategy. These elements will include feedback mechanisms (such as post course discussions (PCDs), interviews and questionnaires), instructor monitoring and the analysis of assessment results. In addition, Training Managers will have responsibility for ensuring that action plans resulting from InVal observations are implemented and monitored.

Instructors - Course instructors have responsibility for day to day management of the InVal process, including management of the assessment strategies and feedback mechanisms used on the course. Course instructors also inform the InVal process through the provision of post course feedback.

Trainees - Trainees provide the primary source of feedback for the InVal process. The information is usually gathered through the completion of a course questionnaire or through response to questions posed during a PCD or individual interview. In addition, the assessment of trainee performance on a course will provide data which can be used to measure the transfer of learning.

InVal Teams - At large training establishments, InVal teams may be tasked to conduct the InVal process. Acting as a 3rd party, InVal teams offer the advantage of impartiality and can provide a ‘big picture’ overview of training effectiveness.

DSAT Consultancy Ltd has the capability to develop and impement DSAT InVal quality processes and procedures into both the Ministary Of Defence (MOD) and civilian organisations.