A needs assessment strategy for educational planning.

Abstract

Increasing public concern regarding the quality and cost of health care, present economic conditions, employee expectations for participative management, and increasing awareness of career opportunities have mandated that the occupational therapy manager base education and training needs on objective and validated data. The needs assessment strategy is a technique that can be used to identify training needs, match these needs to organizational goals and resources, and allow for employee participation. Several assessment methods are discussed and a report format is suggested. A report of assessed needs, subsequent training, and positive outcomes resulting from training could be included in the departmental quality assurance report, as well as in the yearly managerial plan. Since using this strategy, the author's department has been granted a substantial increase in monies for education and training.