TAP express: A simplified think-aloud protocol for evaluating traditional and virtual training and education

Traditional Think-Aloud Protocol (TAP) faces limitations in resource-constrained training environments due to its time-intensive setup and complex analysis. To address this, this study introduces TAP-Express, a streamlined adaptation of the TAP method, designed to evaluate training and education programs across non-technological settings (e.g., traditional classrooms, workshops, and field exercises) and technological modalities (e.g., virtual reality, online platforms, and augmented reality simulations). TAP-Express simplifies the classic TAP method by focusing on key cognitive and intrapersonal skills during training tasks and managing the required verbalization. The methods used to ensure robust evaluation across training contexts and objectives include providing a replicable step-by-step framework, integrating success rate measurement, and supporting small-scale studies. The methodology employs an eight-step process with standardized tools (e.g., task definition tables, pilot study templates). TAP-Express enhances accessibility for diverse researchers and offers a practical, inclusive evaluation tool as a methodological template for education and healthcare training, thereby contributing to the social sciences by combining qualitative and quantitative insights.