I do love them. I love apps because of what I can do on the go. Apps on my mobile devices enable practice, a quick lesson, a conversation with a coach or team, or a reminder about how it is that I might think about something. Here is the story of how apps helped Aaron Ifland, a doctoral student, who attends two universities 118 miles apart, and teaches at a third. I also love their ability to support activities that appear mundane to others, but are important in the moment. Here is an example. A few days ago, I had to get from a hamlet in Maine to a hamlet in upstate New York. I knew I had to go south through New Hampshire and … [Read more...]
A World Without Objectives– Please NO
July 12, 2012 by
Here is what a world without objectives might sound like-- "I don't know. What do you think? Last year we covered ice breakers. How about a session on humor this year?" "Well, I'm not entirely certain what scenario-based elearning would do for us, but I know our competitors are doing it." "I want to build a great program for the reps, but not sure what to do. Role plays? Job aids? Videos? Drills? All of them? How do I decide?" "We got a really good speaker. She is funny, really a hoot. Let her talk about whatever." "Mobile devices are all the rage and I think we should put this on them, so they can check them out whenever." "I … [Read more...]
How We Helped Faculty Move Their Courses Online
July 7, 2012 by
Suzanne Aurilio is my guest blogger. She and our SDSU colleagues have enjoyed some solid successes in bringing faculty to rely on and appreciate technology. Here is her story. I've been working with university faculty on teaching, learning and technology for almost ten years. During much of that time, I led a well-funded program in which we incentivized faculty to experiment with technologies to improve teaching and learning. The program had impact. It catalyzed strategic alliances with key units and leaders. It created a flexible infrastructure of personnel and resources. It was a sustainable effort that grew into an ecosystem that … [Read more...]
Consulting with executives to turn technology investments into results
June 19, 2012 by
Technology is not the answer. Not automatically. But many executives thought it would be so, that it was a matter of selection and investment. Now, many look back on prior enthusiasms for technology-based learning with tales to tell of dashed hopes. With hindsight, they know that nothing is automatic, not even mobile learning, and that success does not come easily. No longer do executives see technology as learning fairy dust. They know it's a minefield out there. Those of us who believe in technology for learning and support must contribute by helping executives find those mines and do something about each and every one of them. Here … [Read more...]
Needs analysis– something old, something new
May 31, 2012 by
When I was a young professor of instructional design and technology at San Diego State University, students often sought advice on how to make decisions about outcomes and strategies. At that time, back in the late 70s, mostly they were concerned about instructional design for face-to-face classes. Even when working on classroom programs, they were flummoxed by the scores of decisions they had to make. My students wanted help with planning. Some call that planning needs assessment. Others prefer needs analysis. Many weigh in for performance analysis or front end analysis. One nickname that makes me smile is disambiguating whatchamacallit. … [Read more...]
Is Your Training On the Trivial?
May 24, 2012 by
I’d like to introduce you to a friend, Rob Foshay. Rob is my guest blogger and a pal for decades. Here is what Rob has to say: So, you know what the gaps are between your company’s average performers, and their expert performers. And, you’ve done your analysis of the job skills involved. And you’ve done your gap analysis to figure out what the highest priorities are for training. Are you really focused on what’s most important for your company (or client)? Maybe not. There might be an entire category of job performance that your analysis has missed: It’s what your master performers have – but it may not even be understandable to … [Read more...]
My daughter, poster child for 21st Century learning
May 17, 2012 by
Welcome two guest bloggers, Ken and Darby Hubbell, father and daughter. First, from Ken-- It is my humble opinion (and rather biased, I will admit) that my 8th grade daughter, Darby, is a prime example of what it means to be a 21st Century student. She is well on her way to a lifetime journey of learning, limited only by having enough time to obtain all the information and skills she desires. And just how does my prodigy achieve this array of abilities? Is she a savant? Is she genetically enhanced? No, she has simply grown up in the generation that acknowledges the classroom is just one small element in the larger educational picture. … [Read more...]
My commencement address to the workforce learning class of 2012
May 10, 2012 by
I am entering the field. What do I do to make a success of it? Let’s pretend that somebody asked me to deliver a commencement speech in response to that question, preferably on a lush, ivy covered campus, near amiable watering holes. Thank you for inviting me to share this wonderful occasion with the workforce learning graduates of 2012.... Let me begin by congratulating you on your career choice. I am sure your families are delighted-- after all you could have selected law school. After years of clamoring for a seat at the table, C-levels are increasingly intrigued by what we can do for them. Pressure for growth, … [Read more...]
Introducing New Technology: From Promise to Reality
May 9, 2012 by
Meet Jeff Loube My guest blogger is Jeff Loube. Jeff describes himself as a practitioner who has completed analysis and design projects such as basic, multi-engine and rotary wing pilot training, maintenance training systems, and maintenance training simulator design, prototyping and development. Jeff is managing editor of MS&T (Military Simulation and Training) magazine, http://halldale.com/mst Here is what Jeff has to say about introducing new technology into the organization. Have you ever been the victim of a new technology initiative, like say a new LMS or a mobile learning initiative or even a new accounting system? They … [Read more...]
Deloitte University— What were they thinking?
April 30, 2012 by
When I heard that Deloitte had purchased more than one hundred acres to construct a leader development facility in Dallas, I was stunned. What were they thinking? Then I heard that, in the midst of the great recession, they intended to spend as much as three hundred million dollars in constructing their center. What were they thinking? I harkened back to stays at other facilities devoted to the development of leaders. GTE came to mind. I worked there three or four times, soon after they built a wondrous center in Connecticut. It was surrounded by forest and trails, with lustrous wood floors and dramatic arching bannisters. I also worked … [Read more...]
