Steven W. Villachica

Cousins but Not Twins: Instructional Design and Human Performance Technology in the Workplace

Instructional design (ID) and human performance technology (HPT) stem from a common origin in systems thinking and behavioral psychology, but today the two fields employ different research bases, system foci, and methods. To contrast these fields, this chapter presents an idealized and abstracted discussion that examines the theoretical origins of the two fields, briefly describes their similarities, and focuses on their differences in terms of analytical frameworks and methods. We conclude that contemporary practice in most contexts combines elements of ID and HPT, particularly when working in cross-functional teams seeking to improve organizational performance. Practitioners of ID are likely to encounter HPT in their work, and they may be called upon to serve as part of a cross-functional team using HPT as a common conceptual framework.

Workplace Learning, Big Data, and Organizational Readiness: Where to Start?

There is a growing need for professionals who are able to analyze large data sets to inform business decisions. Evidence for this need is presented through examples of big data and analytics used to inform and assess informal and formal workplace learning initiatives, embeding big data within a performance improvement (PI) framework, and delivering an emerging organizational readiness model. If big data and analytics could address these needs, then the organizational readiness for this potential solution can be determined. Thus, the authors conclude by describing an emerging model of big data readiness in organizations and its implications for determining readiness. Recommendations for other future research are also provided.