What works?

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My MBA thesis explored the topic of 'what actually works' when it comes to training Asian executives. I was living in Taiwan at the time, hence my focus on this particular demographic group. It was an interesting question for those of us who are in the world of training and consulting to actually ponder. With all that we do to help others learn, are they actually growing? Are they changing?

I am so excited about the endless possibilities that Web 2.0 presents when it comes to training resources. There are so many more options than when I did my MBA research. The ability to access information, share information, track learning - all of these types of tools are now more readily available. But, again I come back to this question of 'what works'?

There were many lessons from my thesis research. But, a couple of them were actually related to the topic of a recent blog posting in which I shared an article from Nicholas Kristof. The commonality between his findings and my own is this one of commitment. When a person is driven and committed to learn/grow - they do! In the case of an executive, other factors come into play - like the individual's boss/supervisor and the company culture. Whether or not these factors are also aligned around the development goals and supportive of them are key.

And so we get back to Web 2.0. As learning environments become even more flexible, does learning become easier.... for either the student or the teacher???? And, even if the learning process is somewhat easier....is it any better??? I hope the answer to both of these is 'yes'. I hope that the learning process becomes easier and that the biproducts of those learning efforts is actually longer lasting personal growth.

Me and just about every other consultant out there is trying to get ahead with our blogs, our twitter sites, online learning systems - you name it. Hopefully, it's all for the 'greater good'. At the end of the day, I still think we'll be left with the same question of, 'do you want to learn' and 'are you committed to the process'.

Just a thought....