Talent Development Management

AY2015/2016 Semester 1

Businesses today, given the increasing competition and globalization are going through immense changes and transformations. The recognition of talent as a source of competitive advantage for businesses is fundamental and Human Resources Development (HRD) is one of the most significant pillars in the organizational HR system. A strategic approach to managing the HRD function is a key to any organizational change efforts. Shifts in skills, behaviours and mindsets needed to meet the future organizational challenges is fostered through a systematic effort in training and development and change management. High performing organizations have shown a laser sharp focus in the way talent is acquired, managed and developed, not to mention a significant investment of organizational resources in development of their human capital. The role of HRD/T&D professionals cannot be overemphasised in these times of constant changes in skills and knowledge requirements of employees, when skilled HRD/T&D professionals are scarce. These professionals play crucial roles in an environment of knowledge-based economy, where continuous performance improvement through lifelong learning has been identified as the key for success and growth of all members of organizations. Learning Objectives & Outcomes: This course is designed to facilitate students? understanding of the frameworks and conceptual underpinnings of learning, training & development, and their application of the latest HRD tools and techniques in addressing learning and development issues. The course will also help in developing the thinking on how HRD/T&D can play significant strategic roles in delivering competitive advantage for organization. The course will address needs assessment, design, delivery and evaluation of training programs in organizations, as mechanisms to enhance organizational performance. Beyond that, students will also acquire a holistic understanding of the need to understand the organizational context and inter-relationships between different HR subsystems in order for HRD to deliver its real value and impact. Real world cases and topical issues that relate to business and HRD challenges will be discussed and highlighted. Future trends and development in HRD and technology will also be covered, and implications as HR practitioners will be explored. After satisfactory completion of this course, students should be able to: (a) clearly understand the conceptual underpinnings of T&D and gain knowledge of the entire T&D framework and processes from needs assessments to its design, implementation and evaluation (b) develop critical thinking/creativity and problem solving & decision-making ability as they analyze & conduct evaluations and design T&D solutions in business simulated case- studies and exercises (c) develop team and collaborative skills as they work in groups in the class assignments/exercises, & (d) understand the future trends and applications in HRD, and implications for them as aspiring HR practitioners.