Public Training Programs in Canada: A Meta-evaluation

Abstract

Abstract: Canada has a history of training individuals for the labour market, and substantial research has accumulated concerning the effectiveness of training programs. There have been many evaluations of public training programs in Canada, both summative and formative, in the last two decades. What have we learned from these evaluations of training programs? What should we continue to do? What should we try to avoid? This article presents an assessment of the summative evaluations conducted to date in Canada, focusing on three questions: What is an appropriate and feasible methodology for summative evaluation of training programs? Has that methodology been consistently and effectively implemented in Canada during the past two decades? What are the prospects for future evaluations in Canada?