Thinking Inside the Box May Actually Solve More Problems
Almost everyone in the business world is familiar with the brainstorming maxim: think outside the box. However, a recent study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh found ideas that were closely related to a problem helped form the most viable...
ASQA’s Identity Crisis
The Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) are a set of principles designed to shape the unique characteristics of an RTO. Their application is paramount to safeguard the integrity of nationally recognised training. These Standards are not steps, formulas or...
Managing the Virtual Workforce
The phrases used to describe the newest phenomenon in the global workforce are numerous: working from home, telecommuting, remote job, virtual employee. All of these terms describe the ability to work outside of a traditional, co-located office environment. The parameters of the working arrangements will differ...
Characteristics of an Effective Survey
A survey sets out to: describe, compare, explain, or predict a condition, behavior, or outcome. It provides trainers and managers information they need to make decisions about programs, projects, people, and initiatives. How much you should invest in a survey to accomplish these...
Are You an Effective Facilitator?
When was the last time you were in a room with a truly exceptional facilitator—where the group was engaged, progress was being made, and issues were raised and then resolved? For me, a great facilitator makes it look like magic;...
Training Package Development Under Review
In September 2014, the Minister for Industry, the Hon Ian Macfarlane MP announced that, at the end of the current contract period with Industry Skills Councils, the Australian Government would be moving to a more contestable model for the development...
New Roles Emerge for Vocational Education and Training
To prepare for the future workplace, the vocational education function must prepare to make five foundational shifts. During the past decade, vocational education has changed dramatically. Not only have the function’s objectives become more aspirational, but the way it influences...
Crafting Vital Coaching Questions
What do extremely good coaches do? They energize, ask, listen, invite, and equip others to develop themselves and achieve their personal and professional best. How does it work? Coaching is all about building and sustaining high-quality links. Specifically, the coach...
10 Steps to Managing Learning Projects
Many trainers and training coordinators are unexpected project managers. Although you never dreamed you’d be a project manager, suddenly your whole work life revolves around projects. You’re the manager on some of these projects, some you participate in, and you...
Building Blocks of Effective Collaboration
Collaboration is more than an activity. It is a process with associated behaviors that can be taught and developed—a process governed by a set of norms and behaviors that maximize individual contribution while leveraging the collective intelligence of everyone involved....