Discusses the need for change in performance technology from a local orientation to a more global perspective. The role of training and instructional systems in performance technology is discussed, including instructional design and instructional system development; and environmentalists' concerns with the relationships between individual…

Discusses issues involved in the computerization of small, nonprofit organizations based on transcripts of a discussion with computer consultants. The use of consultants is discussed; organizational and personnel issues are addressed, including management involvement; and staff training methods are described. (LRW)

The article reviews the history of orientation and mobility (OM) training for the visually impaired with emphasis on the increasing need for paraprofessional mobility assistants. Results of interviews with OM specialists (N=64) provided information on types of personnel trained, methods of training, and skills taught to OM assistants. (DB)

Describes a learning module for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the relationship between EIA objectives and those of the module. Discusses constraints influencing the form of the subject and the range of possible training techniques. Presents details of the module's structure and comments on its approach. (Contains 16 references.) (MDH)

Art is a tool for self-expression and communication that moves beyond the limits of language and can be used effectively in facilitating the group process. Guidelines include creating trust, stimulating hope, preempting defensiveness, making it safe, instilling confidence, and giving everyone a chance to participate. (JOW)

"In-basket" training is ineffective. The Annenburg Institute for School Reform suggests that principals learn most effectively in groups, foster more powerful faculty and student learning by focusing on their own learning, must move beyond their assumptions, and need more focused reflection. Strong leadership, rigorous planning, and…

Measures the impact of pre-job training programs on subsequent earnings of trainees, particularly engineers employed by high-tech firms in Taiwan. Concludes that public training programs have no impact on earnings but participation in private training programs does have a significantly positive effect on earnings, and compares results with…

Discusses the need for library advocates who work for the public interest and describes some of the results of effective advocacy, including increased federal funding. Highlights include the role of the American Library Association and its Library Advocacy Now training program, and 10 ways to support libraries. (LRW)

Discussion of human performance technology and a shift from emphasizing training to emphasizing performance focuses on a review of articles from "Performance Improvement". Results show most articles were focused on processes and particular interventions in business and industry and did not include evaluation that addressed added societal…

Clarifies the basic terminology of needs analysis, proposes a framework for conducting needs analyses, and discusses trends and issues in needs analysis as they apply to improving performance in organizations. Topics include needs; needs assessment; needs analysis; training requirements analysis; needs analysis plan; perception analysis, including…

Includes three brief essays that offer practical pointers for managers who handle training for their organizations. Highlights include a training function checklist for executives; questions executives should ask about training; and the cost of unstructured, informal on-the-job training. (LRW)

Presents an approach to conducting a top-level analysis of training management functions when there are problems within a training system. Highlights include data gathering and analyses of a training system; training management functions and activities, including planning, staffing, development, and evaluation and feedback; and development of root…

Reviews four domains of research in adolescent suicide: (1) the role of psychopathology; (2) family history of psychopathology; (3) mental health treatments; and (4) firearms in homes. Recommendations include: better training for professionals, better delivery of mental health treatments, policy changes of better mental health screening and…

Outlines a procedure which training professionals and business managers can use to assess the effectiveness of their corporate evaluation studies. Meta-evaluation is explained; and phases in the training evaluation process, including plan, develop, obtain, analyze, and report, are described based on experiences at Motorola. (Contains two…

Discusses the use of video for training and highlights six areas that should be considered for effective video use: (1) advance preparation by the teachers viewing the video to examine content; (2) preparing the classroom environment; (3) preparing the trainees; (4) presentation issues; (5) follow-up; and (6) securing the system. (LRW)