- What trends are you currently finding in training?
- What can ASTD do to assist you in meeting the challenges that these trends present?
The groups had lively discussions around both of these topics. Participants cited trends ranging from less time and money for training to higher demand for both specialized and blended learning with greater emphasis on proving relevance and ROI. The diversity of the workforce, including the challenge posed by globalization and working with four generations of employees was cited as well as the move to a more specific and individualized development experience.
Not surprisingly, attendees were most interested in ways that the association could help them meet these new requirements. Suggestions included:
- Sharing cutting edge information related to national trends and new approaches in learning and development
- Partnering with other chapters/organizations on training topics/bringing in well-known speakers, certifications, etc.
- Taking advantage of “tag-ons” with local companies bringing in experts
- Offering meetings or meeting segments based on the diverse interests of the group: internal/external consultants, coaches, technical trainers, etc.
- Establishing closer ties to local businesses
- Helping to define/measure return on investment (ROI) for training
What do you think? Are there other activities that the chapter ought to pursue?
