The Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing
Vol. 38 No. 3 May/June 2007
By Lynore D. DeSilets, EdD, RN-BC
ABSTRACT
The first step in planning any professional development activity is to assess the learning needs of the target group or individual to determine the structure of the program in terms of objectives, content, and activities. Learning needs can be individual, organizational, or societal and must be clearly defined during the planning process. This article provides an overview of the different types of needs assessments and discusses the importance of triangulation when interpreting data.
AUTHOR
Dr. DeSilets is Assistant Dean and Director, Villanova University College of Nursing, Villanova, Pennsylvania.
The author discloses that she has no significant financial interests in any product or class of products discussed directly or indirectly in this activity, including research support.
Address correspondence to Lynore D. DeSilets, EdD, RN-BC, Assistant Dean and Director, Villanova University College of Nursing, 800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085-1690.
