Author: Dr. Shirley J. Caruso, Ed.D.
Self-Directed and Lifelong Learning
Self-directed learning entails the initiation of learning by the learner, identification of the learner’s own learning goals, choosing and making use of learning strategies, and assessing the learning outcomes.
Humanistic, Behaviorist, Cognitive, and Constructivist Views of Self-Directed Learning
The concept of self-directed learning from the constructivists’ point of view is in conformity with the integrative point of view which is based on Gestalt theorists. Both recognize the importance of self-directed learners in the learning process, their interests, attitudes, and abilities to utilize past experiences in meeting new situations. Both believe that there is no substitute for experience in the self-direction learning process.
The Importance of Self-Activity on the Part of the Learner and the Unlimited Extent of Self-Directed Learning
Strategies that enhance self-directed learning include active recall and memorization. Adult educators can further enhance the characteristics of self-directed learners by expanding the learner’s activities through field trips, outings, and visits to companies and organizations. Projects which involve construction also make self-directed learners more active.
Characteristics of Self-Directed Learners
Self-directed learning is a lifelong process. Self-directed learners are aware of their own learning desires and interests, confident of their learning abilities based on previous learning experiences, capable of setting their own goals in learning, are able to choose strategies for learning, are capable of being self-motivated and self-disciplined, understand the process of learning, and are aware of their own learning skills, including strengths and weaknesses in learning.
Human Resource Development – Principles in HR Management Education, Leadership Skills Training and Development and Its Applications in Organizations Like Resources for Human Development, The Human Resources Development Canada and the Scholarly Journal Human Resource Quarterly
Human Resource Development has plenty of principles like management, education, skills and leadership development and these are applied in various organizations like the Human Resources Development Canada, the non-profit Resources for Human Development, and the scholarly Journal Human Resource Quarterly.
Approaches to Identification of Training Needs
The results of the training needs analysis allows training objectives to be determined by answering what needs to be done. The training needs analysis identifies which individuals need training and what type of training is needed. Training is not always the best solution to the given situation, and it is almost never the only solution. Other solutions which are more suitable may also be recommended. These include responsibility and role defining, improved communication, job rotation, clarification of job descriptions, and performance support tools. The recommendation can be a blended solution of both training and some other action.
The Four Key Steps of Training Needs Analysis
The significance of a training needs analysis can be better understood by exploring the consequences of a nonexistent training needs analysis. A nonexistent training needs analysis can be a contributing factor to a higher percentage of workforce turnover, additional retention costs, poor employee performance, loss of business, and loss of profits.
Employee Training Needs Analysis
Employee training refers to the teaching of specific knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSA) an employee. It is any effort to improve current or future employee performance by enhancing an employee’s ability to perform through learning, usually by altering the employee’s attitude or increasing his or her skills and knowledge. The need for training is determined by an employee’s performance deficiency, or a performance gap.
Organizational Strategic Planning
Strategic planning represents different concepts to different individuals. To some it means establishing missions and exercising values. To others it signifies establishing deadlines for action items and managing changes. Whether philosophical or task-oriented, strategic planning means moving an organization in the direction of a shared vision through mutual goals and objectives.