Pretest-Post-test ComparisonsTo pro

Pretest-Post-test ComparisonsTo provide a comparison for the post-test observations, some evaluators conduct a pretest evaluation. Although this design compensates for one of the problems of the case-study design, it is still an inadequate research design.Improvements in performance or learning scores from the pretest to the post-test may or may not be attributed to the training program. For example, if a group of new trainees is exposed to one hour of training every day during their first week, improvements in their scores from the first of the week to the end of the week are typically attributed to the effects of training. Although the results may make the program appear successful, several competing explanations may also explain the change in the scores. Three of the most relevant competing explanations are referred to in experimental research as history, maturation, and the sensitizing effects of the pretest.History refers to the historical events that transpire between the pretest and the post-test. While the training program is being presented, many other things are also happening that may influence the scores regardless of what occurs within the training program.