Validation of the T-SAT-R-2: A Reaction to Training Scale for Use in Child Welfare and Human Service Trainings

This article reports on the validation of the Training Seminar Assessment Tool-Revised-Second Edition (T-SAT-R-2) instrument designed to measure participants’ satisfaction with training seminars and workshops. It was developed from an earlier version, the Training Seminar Assessment Tool-Revised (T-SAT-R), which was distributed following child welfare and social service staff development training sessions. Using confirmatory factor analysis with a sample of 656 trainees, the 25-item T-SAT-R was reduced to 13 items and is now named the T-SAT-R-2. The final model consists of 3 domains: transfer of knowledge, communication, and substance/access. The T-SAT-R-2 is in a user-friendly format and can be scored on each domain or combined to give a total score. The benefits of using the T-SAT-R-2 include that it is only 1 page, the wording is straightforward, and presenters can add additional items based on their specific presentation. Research is presented that shows the connection between satisfaction surveys and behavior change from trainings to be speculative; however, child welfare studies have indicated a link between satisfaction with training and job satisfaction and, possibly, turnover. Additional research on the effects of satisfaction with trainings for child welfare workers is warranted. For the full T-SAT-R-2 instrument, please contact the corresponding author at the listed address.