Peer training in the workplace can be effective if it is structured; if trainers are carefully chosen, trained, and rewarded; and if transfer of training is supported. Peer training has the advantages of credibility, speed, and cost savings. (SK)

Discussion of the emergence of performance technology within the field of instructional design focuses on job aids. Conventional job aids as well as expanded definitions of job aids that include decision making are described, and the influence of cognitive psychology and changing organizational expectations of employees are considered. (11…

Explored within empirical study context complexity of organizational commitment construct and respondent-generated behavioral manifestations of job attitude among plant workers (N=156). Found each commitment dimension related differently to work outcomes and that none of the dimensions was able to predict absenteeism or tardiness. (Author/CM)

Standardized teacher appraisal instruments are generally not designed to evaluate the specialized instructional practices of teachers working with exceptional students. By incorporating the model described in this article, teacher evaluators can use their state-mandated system and meet these teachers' need for equitable consideration. Includes 10…

Discusses the need for national skill standards and the problems associated with establishing them. Suggests tasks that must be completed: (1) reaching consensus on what constitutes an industry; (2) settling how specific the lists will be; (3) determining how to set standards; and (4) figuring out how to assess students and what certification…

A self-selection/job matching model of the move from technical to managerial jobs among scientists and engineers demonstrates that managerial and technical productivity are positively correlated and that information received on the job influences choice of managerial or technical career paths. (SK)

Two weeks after 146 participants completed a survey of openness to differences, they evaluated hypothetical job applicants: a female Native American in the treatment group, a White male in the control group. The treatment-group candidate was rated significantly lower and recommended less frequently. Low openness scores correlated with…

Suggests that measurement of performance is difficult and imprecise. Offers questions for consideration before designing and implementing measurement systems and describes new tools for measuring and managing human capital. (JOW)

Literature review determined a link between personal financial problems and employee productivity. Presents results of survey that assessed financial behaviors of clerical workers and their desire for workplace financial counseling. A large percentage of employees were exhibiting poor financial behaviors and 80% were interested in workplace…

A British nursing school's version of the Objective Structured Clinical Examination is a process for assessing clinical skills in the context of holistic patient care. Students work with one simulated patient at one station, demonstrating competence in a sample of skills. (SK)

The job knowledge and performance of 23 Australian ecotour guides were systematically observed and compared with client satisfaction ratings. Client satisfaction was quite high, and evaluators gave the guides high scores on content and knowledge. However, scores were lower on certain aspects of communication and interpretive skills and were poor…

A study evaluated an off-site/on-site program for reducing job coach assistance provided for three adults with severe multiple disabilities in a part-time community job. On-the-job assistance was reduced, while the individuals received more traditional day services when not at work. No adverse effects on productivity were observed. (Contains…

Beginning superintendents should reconsider before buying homes and settling into new communities. Today's superintendent, like the Old West hired gun, has a short, precarious tenure. Superintendents should be prepared, learn to recognize signs of trouble, quit while they're ahead, and keep their (metaphorical) bags packed. Board hostility is…

This taxonomy of learning tasks new employees must complete has four categories: individual (attitudes, expectations), people (relationships, supervision), work tasks (knowledge, skills, abilities), and organization (culture, roles). Learning tasks are accomplished through three types of intervention: orientation, job training, and workplace…

Analysis of responses from 132 expatriates in Fortune 500 companies showed a direct positive relationship between their job satisfaction and the organization's performance. The relationship varies depending on the company's level of experience in a country and degree of internationalization. Expatriates' sharing of their learning experiences…