This study examined the role of facilitators in nine virtual action learning groups. A qualitative analysis of the facilitators' interventions across all groups resulted in a typology that included group management, group process, and support interventions. A model showing the relationship among these categories proposes that effective…

This paper evaluates the impacts of the Internet on organizational structures and identifies new forms of organizations in light of information technology (IT) advances. Four traditional forms of organizations are summarized, i.e., the bureaucratic hierarchy, the entrepreneurial organization, the matrix organization, and the adhocacy. The…

Tells how to launch an organizational development effort when a firm cannot afford a complex program. Gives a basic format for approaching organizational development. (Editor/DR)

Discusses a study of emerging trends in human resource development (HRD), organization development, and quality of work life. Results indicate that greater concentration on practical concerns in HRD--productivity, profitability, measuring results, adapting to new technologies--predominates against humanistic interests. (JOW)

While articles written about quality circles are always positive, there are negative aspects to such programs, and there have been programs which have failed. This article describes the advantages and disadvantages of Quality Circle Programs. (JOW)

Examines the developmental process by which universities adapt and modify themselves in relation to the new presence of large numbers of adults in their midst. (CT)

Provides a condensed description of the criteria and choices for selecting a particular assessment, evaluation, or research design. Strengths and weaknesses of each design are presented. (Author/JEG)

Argues for an institutional approach to theory and research on situated learning, which would allow for a different frame of reference than the concept of economic rationality as the objective of workplace learning. (SK)

Presents a strategic model for career motivation based on component dimensions of self-identity, self-insight, and career resilience. Identifies these elements as part of the greater construct of career commitment. (SK)

Argues that methods of organizational communication and learning resemble neural networks and that developing teaching methods to reflect this understanding should be crucial. Provides an overview of neural organization, the application of neural networks to organizational structure, and education and training within organizations. Concludes that…

Human resource development in organizations can be used as a coercive tool that reinforces existing power structures. The emerging postmodern organization must consider individual wisdom, values, and knowledge; recognize differences; remove inequalities; and create opportunities for all voices to be heard. (SK)

Many corporations have initiated learning initiatives during the past few years. Training managers are successfully aligning organizational learning with business objectives and bringing about recognition of the relationship between work force development and corporate performance. (Author/JOW)

Reports the results of a qualitative study of success factors and barriers to the development of virtual knowledge-sharing communities of practice at Caterpillar Inc. Identified prerequisites for successful knowledge management through virtual communities of practice, as well as barriers to virtual community development, and discusses future…

An organizational learning capability survey was used to benchmark the process by which two companies tried to become learning organizations. Over 2 years, both significantly improved learning capability via different paths. One used generic interventions with a small group; the other targeted a small group first with later diffusion across the…

Explores continuous improvement methods, which underlie total quality management, finding barriers to implementation in practice that are related to a one-dimensional approach. Suggests a multiple, unbounded learning cycle, a holistic approach that includes adaptive learning, learning styles, generative learning, and capability development.…