Top companies realize how vital training is to their success and continue to invest in it, even in trying times. This article presents "Training" magazine's 11th annual ranking of the top companies with employee-sponsored workforce training and development. First-time No. 1 winner Farmers Insurance puts such a premium on learning that its new…

A one-size-fits-all global sales strategy that fails to take into account the cultural, regulatory, geographic, and economic differences that exist across borders is a blueprint for failure. For training organizations tasked with educating globally dispersed sales forces, the challenge is adapting to these differences while simultaneously…

One has more than language barriers and varying cultural differences to consider when staying overseas these days. In the wake of hotel terrorist bombings in countries such as Indonesia and India in the last few years, travelers need to be assured the place they call home for the duration of their stay won't result in injury or death. To reduce…

Discusses the results of a 1981 Current Population Survey conducted by the U.S. Bureau of the Census. Concentrates on the adult education portion of the survey that reported on nonretired adults who participated in at least one organized adult education course or activity. Includes data on providers, participants, costs, reasons, content, and…

Elements of the ideal match between adult learning and the computer are discussed: (1) autonomy, (2) utility, (3) integration, and (4) security. (CT)

Reviews the work of the late Malcolm Knowles, his theory and principles of andragogy, and the legacy of his classic writings. (SK)

In an adaptation from "The Making of an Adult Educator: An Autobiographical Journey," Malcolm Knowles, the father of adult learning theory, discusses motivation, self-directed learning, trainers and organizational change, and social and economic inequalities in the United States. (JOW)

More and more organizations are helping their employees take advantage of new college and university programs that mix a lot of independent study at home with minimal on-campus work. A variety of independent study degree programs and typical students participating in these continuing education programs are described. (MW)

A list of truisms concerning adult learning are listed and explained. They cover the areas of (1) motivation to learn, (2) curriculum design, and (3) classroom experience. Also included is an annotated list of resources on adult learning. (CT)

"Generation Next" are the 68 million people born between 1977 and 1994. They are the first generation that has grown up with such technologies as computers, the Internet, compact disks, and microwaves and they have more education than previous generations. They will have an effect on trainers and training methods in the workplace. (JOW)

The authors review the concept of andragogy and synthesize recent criticisms of this theory. The use of andragogical techniques in job training is discussed. The authors conclude that, despite some weaknesses, andragogy is important in that it makes the teacher sensitive to the needs and interests of the learner. (CH)

Describes the setting up a private consulting business. Looks at the pitfalls and warns of the problems to be faced. (JOW)

A professor of adult and community college education at North Carolina State University, Malcolm Knowles, expresses his views on adult learning in interview form. According to Knowles inservice management development and industrial training programs, as well as public school and college programs, require a process structure of learning…

Discusses the gap between the basic skills of many workers and the more complex skills required by many jobs. Points out that many employers offer basic skills training because they cannot find qualified entry-level workers and find glaring deficiencies in their existing workers. (JOW)

Discusses the new generation of videoconferencing technology and suggests that it is less expensive, less cumbersome, more reliable, and easier to use than earlier versions. Indicates that it can enhance training, personalize meetings, and help ease time-to-market challenges. (JOW)