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| As our
name states, ISPI is "for Performance Improvement." People ask, "What
do you mean by that?" We could start by giving you two more terms for
the same approach: Human Performance Technology (HPT) and Human Performance Improvement
(HPI). But
what if you're asking for an orientation to HPT? We'll direct you to three
good sources (from three great experts!). Each captures the essence
of Performance Improvement in its own way. |  | | | |
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Orientation
Outcome: When you've succeeded in this orientation, you'll have a better
sense of "Performance Improvement." Even if you're new to the field,
you'll be able to picture yourself doing Performance Improvement (or HPI, or HPT).
And you'll be able to concisely explain the approach and its value. Orientation
Time: We suggest ten minutes to an hour. It depends on how interested
you become. Even if you have only a minute or two, please start now. Orientation
Process: Visit up to three of these insightful
sources in any order. | | 1.
Tony O'Driscoll
"What Is Human Performance Technology (HPT)?"
Dr. O'Driscoll begins with this quote: "systems thinking applied to human
resource activities." He then fills it out with a one-page one-minute answer.
Read
the article here. 2.
Roger Chevalier
"Using the Standards of Performance Technology"
presents ten standards, four principles, six steps, and one model.
Dr. Chevalier's article is so clear that you'll think anyone can understand HPT.
You'll be right. The challenging - and engaging - part is to become skilled at
it. Read the article
here. 3.
Thiagi's Peers
"Explaining HPT to Your Mom" is
an Open Question on the site of ISPI's entertaining expert, Dr. Sivasailam Thiagarajan,
known to all as Thiagi. Read the
article called Two More OQs for Thiagi's thoughts. "Aha," you may find yourself saying, "so that's
what it's all about!"
| | Observing
Success: Envision yourself doing Performance Improvement.
Then talk about it with a friend or colleague. In a clear, simple, and interesting
way, tell your listener about HPT and its value. Watch your listener's eyes. When
they light up, you've achieved the Orientation to Performance Improvement outcome.
Congratulations! Taking
It Further: If you'd like to get better at Performance Improvement
and get to know a Performance Improvement community of practice, then your ISPI
chapter is a good group to visit or join. | |
Evaluating
the Orientation: Let us know what you think about this
"Orientation to Performance Improvement." Email your comments to
info@ispi-van.org. Thanks! |
| | Jim
Wright, B.A., M.Ed., is a founding member of ISPI Vancouver and a Coordinator
of Instructional Development for the BC
Open University (BCOU). He has developed a wide range of courses and training
for the BCOU and other divisions of BC's Open Learning Agency. A former secondary
school department head and managing editor in book publishing, Jim also developed
advertising for many years in the print and (more recently) Web media. He enjoys
cross-discipline transfer of expertise and appreciates ISPI as an ongoing source
of sound research, practical ideas, and interesting interaction. Jim is currently
Co-President of ISPI Vancouver.
[Last Updated:
07/16/2008] | |
 Jim
Wright |
