HRM617
HRM617
HRM617
These answers should guide you in preparing for your HRM617 midterm exam. Each
question relates to foundational concepts in human resource management, training, and
organizational development.
In the context of HRM617 (Training and Development), this topic focuses on the processes and activities
that help employees acquire, improve, and update the skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary to
perform their jobs effectively and to develop their careers. Here's a breakdown of key concepts in
Training and Development:
Training: Aimed at enhancing employees' current skills and abilities for their present job. It is
short-term, job-specific, and often focused on improving performance.
Development: Focuses on preparing employees for future roles and career growth. It is more
long-term, broader in scope, and often includes leadership, managerial, and personal
development.
Purpose: To determine whether training is necessary and identify specific areas where training
will have the most impact.
o Task analysis: Examining job descriptions and specific tasks to identify skill gaps.
3. Types of Training
On-the-Job Training (OJT): Employees learn by performing tasks under the supervision of
experienced colleagues. Examples include shadowing, coaching, and job rotation.
Off-the-Job Training: Conducted away from the workplace, often in a classroom or training
center. Examples include seminars, workshops, and online courses.
E-Learning: Online training that allows employees to learn at their own pace. It’s cost-effective
and flexible.
Simulations and Role-playing: Practical exercises that mimic real-world scenarios to help
employees develop skills in a controlled environment.
4. Training Methods
Behavior Modeling: Employees observe and then practice the behaviors of successful role
models to improve their own performance.
Blended Learning: Combining various training methods (e.g., e-learning, classroom training, and
on-the-job training) to enhance learning outcomes.
Instructor-Led Training (ILT): Traditional method where an instructor leads a session, whether in
person or virtually.
Self-Directed Learning: Employees are provided with resources (e.g., books, online courses) and
are responsible for their own learning.
Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT): A digital version of instructor-led training, where the
instructor and learners interact online via video conferencing tools.
6. Evaluation of Training
1. Reaction: How participants feel about the training (e.g., satisfaction surveys).
3. Behavior: The transfer of learned skills to the workplace and changes in behavior.
ROI (Return on Investment): Measures the financial return on the training investment. The
formula is: ROI=Net Benefits of TrainingTraining Costs×100ROI = \frac{\text{Net Benefits of
Training}}{\text{Training Costs}} \times 100
Leadership Development: Training aimed at enhancing the skills and capabilities of current and
future leaders. It may include mentoring, coaching, and specific leadership programs.
Constructivist Learning Theory: Suggests learners build their own understanding and knowledge
by actively engaging with the training material and experiences.
Resource Constraints: Limited budgets and time can affect the scope and effectiveness of
training programs.
Resistance to Change: Employees may be resistant to new training methods or new skills.
Customization: Training programs must be tailored to meet the specific needs of diverse
employee groups.
Mobile Learning: Training that can be accessed on mobile devices, making it easier for
employees to learn on the go.
Artificial Intelligence and Learning Analytics: AI tools that help customize training content and
predict the effectiveness of training programs.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): Interactive technologies used for immersive
training experiences, particularly in fields like healthcare, aviation, and manufacturing.
Improved Performance: Enhances employee skills, resulting in better job performance and
productivity.
Employee Motivation and Satisfaction: Training programs show employees that the company
invests in their growth, leading to higher job satisfaction and engagement.
Reduced Turnover: Well-trained employees are more likely to stay with the organization due to
opportunities for personal growth and career advancement.
Organizational Success: Training aligns the skills of employees with the goals and strategies of
the organization, contributing to its success.
In summary, Training and Development is a crucial HRM function that drives organizational success by
continuously enhancing employees' skills and preparing them for future roles. A well-designed training
program not only improves individual and team performance but also contributes to the overall growth
and competitiveness of the organization.