The role of training design to applying trained skills on the job in the public health sector: Case study in Ethiopia

This paper focuses on the transfer of health management information system (HMIS) training delivered to health workers in Oromia region of Ethiopia. The training aimed at introducing and applying computer based HMIS in the public health care of the region. This research explores factors that affect transfer of the knowledge and skill gained in the training to the work place and suggests approaches to alleviate some of the obstacles. Qualitative interpretative method was used to collect data and the data is analyzed based on trainees´ characteristics, training design and work environment. The study identified lack of managerial support at the working place as well as absence of prior computer knowledge and skill that impede the transfer of training to the job. The training also did not consider these when it was designed rather the same training was delivered to all trainees. The study suggests conducting situational analysis to understand the trainees´ characteristics and their work environment. The situational analysis will help to adjust the training based on the types of trainees, which could alleviate lack of managerial support to allocate resource, lack of adequate support, absence of prior computer knowledge and skills. Furthermore, the inadequacy of technical support might be alleviated by involving staff who have better IT competence and local IT private companies to the training to use them as local support staff.