Research Brief Introduction

The Research Brief is a 500-750 word paper on a topic you select from this week's textbook readings-you may want to use the workshop outcomes as ideas/topics for your briefs. This activity allows you to delve deeper into topics/concepts that may be of personal interest, pertain to current workplace situations, or are relevant to the team project.

Upon completion of this workshop, you should be able to (depending on topic/concept selected):

1. Explain the concept of needs assessment as properly identifying and establishing priorities regarding human resource development activities at three levels:  organization, task and person (CO B).
2. Identify the criteria used to determine the "make-versus-buy" decision: creating or purchasing HRD programs, and when selecting a trainer (CO B).
3. Explain the three primary training approaches: on-the-job training, classroom, and self-paced, citing the advantages and disadvantages of each (CO B).
4. Describe the process of how to select the best combination of training methods and media to maximize trainee learning for the planned training approach (CO B).
5. Summarize the activities involved in the process of implementing an HRD program (CO B).
6. Describe techniques used to assess training program effectiveness and demonstrate use of applicable metrics (e.g., surveys, pre- and post-tests) (CO B).
7. Identify applicable global issues affecting HRD (e.g., international law, culture, local management approaches/practices, societal norms) (CO B).

Instructions

1. Select a topic for your research brief.  You may want to use the workshop outcomes for ideas.
2. Your research brief should be 500-750 words and include a title page and reference page.  The paper must be formatted in APA 6th edition. You must use, at a minimum, your textbook and three sources from professional and/or peer reviewed journals for a total of four references. Note that non-professional/non-peer reviewed references will not count toward the reference requirement.
3. When you have completed your assignment, save a copy for yourself and submit a copy to your instructor using the Dropbox by the end of the workshop.