Turning information into action
"Unlike adolescents who learn by mastering facts and digesting information, adults concentrate on applying facts and turning information into action," according to Dave Ulrich, co-author of The HR Principle. "Adults have already developed cognitive foundations through life experiences, and they're interested in learning how new ideas will help them get what they want rather than accumulating more knowledge."
Professor Ulrich offers these key attributes to adult learning:
• New ideas based on business reality. When you understand why you should learn, you more readily accept what you should learn.
• Application focused.Working adults are less interested in theory than in how theory can help them.
• Learning through multiple learning styles.Most adults have a learning style or preferred way to learn and they do best when material is tailored to that style.
• Information via multiple channels. Individuals learn through multiple learning styles like reading, listening, observing, watching videos, analyzing case studies or live cases, role-playing, discussion, and so forth.
• Program grounded in personal reality.People develop when they recognize their strengths and weaknesses and make realistic plans for personal improvement.
• Clear goals established.Adults who know what they want find it easier to focus their attention.
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Professional development ready when you are
SMU's Executive Education instructors use the same key attributes that Professor Ulrich stresses for successful adult learning specifically as it relates to professional development. We do this so you gain the knowledge and skills learned today to use tomorrow. SMU's Executive Education courses deliver an array of on-target business courses and seminars that you can use immediately to impact your job performance and career.
Here's your chance...spring classes are filling
Take advantage of upcoming SMU Executive Education certificate programs in leadership and management for new or aspiring managers or experienced managers who want to expand their capabilities. Courses include:
• Leading Tomorrow's Business: A certificate program in management. This 12-week program begins on Feb. 26. You'll get the knowledge, insight and skills you need to work with the many functions in today's complex business organization. You'll gain a better understanding of the cutting-edge ideas and practices that define tomorrow's competitive business environment.
• Competing Through People: A certificate program in leadership. This nine-week program begins on March 8. This course provides concepts and tools to master the people side of management. Focus is on your own management style, managing subordinates and managing relationships with your boss and peers.
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