Page 20 - The Human Resource Development - New Student Orientation Handbook (REVISED)

The Human Resource Development
Orientation Handbook and Research Guide

Human Resource Development Master’s Program

HRD Mission

The Human Resource Development (HRD) Program provides the broadest interpretation of human
resource development, linking it to the theories and principles associated with learning, performance
improvement and change management. With an emphasis in training and consulting, it builds its
strength as it draws from other disciplines to include organizational behavior, organizational
development, leadership development, career development, human resources management, strategic
planning, and technology-based learning. To facilitate the learning, the HRD program promotes
discussion on diverse perspectives by providing a variety of paradigms that include practical
application, research, group dynamics and critical reflective experiences essential to the
enhancement of student skills, knowledge and abilities in the classroom and in workplace settings.
The program provides the students with the opportunity to contribute to the field of study through
its research. This is an important benefit to those students desiring to continue their studies in a
doctoral program in addition to sharing their professional experiences with their peers and to apply
learned skills in organizational settings. Through lecture and the application of small group
dynamics, learners engage in a variety of practical and experiential activities designed to facilitate
the learning process both in-class and in workplace settings.

HRD Goals and Objectives

The Bowie State University (BSU), HRD program offers students interactive and critical role play
coupled with a variety of on campus resources and assistance. Upon completion of the HRD
program, participants will be equipped to successfully compete in the global economy. Our goals
and objectives for each of you are:

• Professional Performance Improvement
• Personal Growth
• Preparation of students to take on the task of future HRD practitioners
• Training (today), Education (tomorrow), and Development (future)
• Enhance writing, communication, and presentation skills.

Understanding Human Resource Development
HRD as an organizational process comprises the skillful planning and facilitation of a variety of
formal and informal learning and knowledge processes and experiences, primarily but not
exclusively in the workplace, in order that organizational progress and individual potential can be
enhanced through the competence, adaptability, collaboration and knowledge-creating activity of all
who work for the organization. The definition reflects a perspective on HRD that is in accordance
with the current macro-level policy emphasis on lifelong learning, development, and performance
improvement.

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