Document Analysis - hdbk10860036

DOE-HDBK-1086-95

analysis, brainstorming, and traditional task analysis. Usually,

combinations of these methods will be necessary depending upon the

situation. Determine the most appropriate method based on the criteria

listed under each method below. Understand that the following list of

methods is not exhaustive. If there is another method that would be

beneficial to the situation, employ it. The goal is to use methods that will

most efficiently and effectively accomplish the goal of analyzing the

content of the chosen topic.

a. Document Analysis. Document analysis is one method that can be

used to determine the content of a training program, course, or lesson

using information obtained directly from operating documents. The

goal of this method is to extract knowledge and skill requirements

directly from process documents. Once the content is determined,

learning objectives can be written. The analysis process is explained

below along with several guidelines and techniques a facilitator

should keep in mind.

For a task-based training system, a key document for analysis is

the operating procedure. An operating procedure is a document

that lists the steps for accomplishing work. The discussion below

assumes the use of an operating procedure. Similar guidelines

and techniques could apply to the analysis of other types of

documents.

Before starting the process, ensure that each team member has

a copy of the procedure for which the training content will be

determined.

Verify the Usability of the Procedure. Determine the usability

of the procedure by asking the team questions such as:

Does this procedure reflect how the job is currently

being performed?

If the answer is "yes," the procedure can be used to

determine training content. Write the title of the procedure at

the top of the flipchart. If the answer is "no," the procedure

will not be useful and document analysis should not be used.

If they answer that the procedure is partially correct,

document analysis can be used; however, the facilitator will

need to guide the team in identifying steps in the procedure

that do not apply, and should guide the team in determining

what new content should be added or changed that would

reflect the correct performance of the task. While performing

document analysis, ask questions such as:

What content would you include that would address

recent changes that have occurred in the task?