Which level is NOT part of the Kirkpatrick Model?

The Kirkpatrick Model is a widely recognized framework for evaluating training effectiveness, consisting of four distinct levels: Reaction, Learning, Behavior, and Results. Each level serves a unique purpose in assessing different aspects of training and its impact on both learners and the organization.

The levels of the model specifically focus on the trainee's experiences, the knowledge and skills they acquire, the changes in behavior that result from the training, and the overall outcomes or results that stem from the training initiatives. Retention, while an important concept in learning and training, is not an official category within the Kirkpatrick framework. Instead, it pertains more to how well learners maintain and apply their knowledge over time, which can be considered a subcomponent of the Learning level.

Recognizing the official levels defined by the Kirkpatrick Model is crucial for using it effectively in training evaluation, and understanding the omission of Retention highlights the importance of focusing on the established criteria for measuring training success.