Human-resource-development needs that arise from different business strategies will depend on the purpose and structure of the strategies. A strategic approach to training and development necessitates increased theoretical rigor, more rigorous evaluation of effectiveness, and determination of responsibility for training. (Author/SK)

Diversity is a multidimensional construct that affects all members of an organization. The relationship between diversity and organizational performance is not automatic. Diversity must be promoted, supported, and managed effectively to reap its benefits. (SK)

Examines the necessity of defining the knowledge and skills required of postsecondary disability-service providers, due to the significant growth in the number of students with disabilities entering higher education. Discusses the implications of recent developments in professional standards for postsecondary disability personnel and the…

Tips for training company Web site developers include the following: have a vision for the Web site, train the right people, choose the right software and instructors, train beyond site-building tools, and provide on-the-job assistance. (SK)

Despite evidence supporting person-centered human resource development, control is the predominant model used. An approach to workplace learning in the construction industry--work activity briefings--demonstrates application of a developmental method. Changes in team and group relationships and supervisor attitudes can result. (SK)

Defines workplace learning and outlines conditions and characteristics. Identifies learning paradigms and models and discusses the role of workplace learning in the development of learning organizations. (SK)

Nursing faculty's joint appointments may involve clinical, research, or administrative roles. These dual responsibilities have many benefits but pose challenges in prioritizing work and dealing with workload increases and fatigue. Joint appointments give faculty the opportunity to provide staff development to clinical nurses. (SK)

A development-oriented approach to assessment requires an environment with a strong focus on learning, self-regulation, and use of results in developmental programs. Factors influencing developmental performance assessment include managers' and employees' attitudes, organizational culture, and self-perceptions of competence. (SK)

School leaders should realize that consultants cannot substitute for developing collective actions within the organization. The "Consultant from Oz Syndrome" stems from placing undue confidence in external sources, confusing consultants with magicians, and denying their limitations. While journeying down the yellow brick road of…

After nearly two years' experience with the interdisciplinary studies program, career pathways, and alternating-day 10-block schedule, the Farmington (Missouri) High School faculty is pleased with their progress. Student and teacher surveys indicate an ongoing need for improvements to meet all students' learning needs. This schedule is not for…

Three types of staff development portfolios were studied: dossiers, course-related learning, and reflective learning. Analysis of their use as developmental assessment tools indicated that reflective portfolios are particularly effective for performance and learning-related change. (Contains 30 references.) (SK)

Facilitation in the workplace, especially when undertaken by supervisors, can pose challenges involving hostile conditions and coercion, diminishing its effectiveness for adult learning. It requires examination of the dynamics of trust building, the roles of participants, and the use of facilitators whose interests are independent of the context.…

The most essential set of skills that camp directors can impart to staff are effective group skills. One trick to working with campers in groups is to formalize brief meetings as part of the program. Types of meetings described are daily group, bunk, or cabin meetings; briefing and debriefing before and after activities; public appreciation;…

Demonstrates that a broadened concept of staff development is important and possible. Describes the steps one library took in establishing a staff development plan; the committee that developed the programs; successful programs; and how, with modest expenditures, an investment can grow and provide benefits. Appendixes contain memos and an…

The Thailand Land Titling Project includes a training and development component aimed at long-term sustainability. A training target matrix was developed to identify the knowledge, skills, experience, and performance standards required and needs for training at various levels. Six broad and flexible career paths allow for logical succession,…