This study examined key approaches that could be used in evaluating and improving employee training in universities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which employee training opportunities at one university used collaboration and technology, identify the foci of the training opportunities, and describe employees' perceptions of the relationship between training programs and productivity. The differing methods utilized during trainings can have a significant impact on how employees retain information and translate those skills to their work tasks. A mixed methods research methodology was utilized and a demographic survey and in-depth interviews were used to collect data from participants. In this study, a total of ten university staff members participated as interviewees. Each of them attended various trainings at Ohio University with different subject matters. The trainings all had differing levels and types of instructional technology utilized during the sessions. Some of them also contained collaborative learning experiences to reinforce the learning. Information gathered from the interviews showed that there were numerous ways through which employees in learning institutions can become innovative and productive. The findings presented in this study show that both instructional technology and collaborative learning utilized during training can have a perceived impact on employee productivity. In fact, learning institutions can enhance employee productivity by utilizing collaborative learning and enabling employees to combine skills and experiences for enhancing growth and performance. The ability of an individual to utilize the instructional technology and collaborative learning resources that have been provided can significantly impact the success of the entire organization. Implications for future studies and research in the field are provided, as well as suggestions for the further research in the area of employee productivity as well as the different factors of institutional success. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]