How do we measure learning is achieved?

When we talk about learning, how do we measure it. While I like to learn for fun(another article), many a times, especially in Singapore we have to measure if anything is achieved. Knowledge without application is seen as a waste of time. Therefore, lets discuss how we can measure it.

Behaviour change

Behaviour change is seen as one of the ways of measuring if it. Much like Pavlov classical conditioning, if the dog salivates when you ring a bell, you can conclude behaviour has changed and learning has been achieved

Yet, what type of behaviour change we want? It feels to me like we are creating society where everyone is the same, like a factory, a brave new world. We all talk about some people have certain strengths for certain jobs but does that mean if we were to train people to be better in their jobs, then would be creating mini-mes?

Kirkpatrick 4 levels

Behaviour change is one of the 4 levels of learning from kirkpatrick 4 levels of learning. It states that after the first 2 levels of reaction and learning, it can lead to behvaiour change and thus results(level 4)

Yet for behaviour change, you need time. At least 3-6 months so people can apply the knowledge and do it, reflect, and reinforce the learning.

Learning reinforcement

Learning reinforcement is required for behaviour change. As they say u need to spend alot of time(lazy to google how long), you need time to apply knowledge. You cant change in 2 days to become a competent in something. I mean literally competent to apply something and not just having learnt something(kirkpatrick 2)

Do we have the time?

Now then why are we doing 2 days courses, or rushing through E-learning courses. As mentioned, learning without application is seen as waste of time for fun. Or for some not having a cert afte(laugh). Are we just learning or gathering knowledge for fun? Or are we learning so we change for the better.