Methods used to evaluate the effectiveness of CRM training: A survey of UK aviation operators.

This study examines the techniques which UK aviation operators are employing to evaluate crew resource management (CRM) training. A questionnaire designed to elicit information on the methods used in industry to evaluate CRM training was sent to all aviation operators in the UK. A total of 113 questionnaires were returned (65% response rate). A representative sample of 20 interviews was also carried out with companies who had completed the questionnaire. The survey showed that most UK operators attempt to evaluate the impact of their CRM training. However, many of the methods used would appear not to be based on formal evaluation techniques and do not provide sufficient information to assess whether CRM training is actually transferring to the flight deck. The main reasons why companies are not evaluating CRM training are a lack of availability of resources and of simple, concise material on how to carry out training evaluation.