The History of Human Resource Development: Understanding the Unexplored Philosophies, Theories, and Methodologies

by Claretha Hughes, Matthew W. Gosney

Overview

The history of human resource development embraces humankind's investment in one another's skills, knowledge, and abilities. As the field transitions into a more mature discipline, there is a need to understand the philosophies upon which certain theories and methodologies are based. Providing a historical narrative of HRD from the beginning of human history through modern times, this book reveals the consistent interaction between the philosophies of the time, theories, and methods of people management and how these philosophies impact what is known as HRD today. Drs. Gosney and Hughes offer a robust examination of HRD and provide a methodology for critical thinking to better understand the theories and assumptions of the field. They provide a model whereby scholars and practitioners can better understand and evaluate modern HRD through the context of HRD history.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781137526977
Publisher:	Palgrave Macmillan US
Publication date:	11/17/2015
Edition description:	1st ed. 2016
Pages:	190
Product dimensions:	5.51(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.02(d)

About the Author

Author Matthew W. Gosney: Matthew W. Gosney is Director of Organizational Development at Hillcrest Medical Center, USA. Author Claretha Hughes: Claretha Hughes is Associate Professor and Director of Education and Health Professions Honors Program at University of Arkansas (USA).

Table of Contents

List of Figures
List of Tables
1. Introduction to HRD History and Critical Thinking Theory
2. Early Human History
3. The Hellenic Period
4. 400 - 1800 AD: The Middle Ages, Renaissance and Enlightenment
5. The Industrial Revolution
6. World War II
7. 1950's – 1970's: The Rise of Organization Development
8. HRD in the Modern Era
9. Underlying Assumptions of HRD Theory and Practice
10. Critical Thinking in HRD: A Path Forward
References

Editorial Reviews

"For decades, organizations of all kinds have grasped at ways to advance the capabilities of their human capital. Training and development is a multi-billion dollar industry, but for all of that investment, talent development still tops the list of most executives' greatest organizational challenges. The shortfall in results is due in part to the fact that most professionals in the field lack a fundamental understanding of how humans actually develop, along with a deep knowledge of the rich history of the field. The History of Human Resource Development provides seasoned and aspiring professionals alike with a comprehensive historical view of the technologies and methodologies that have evolved alongside the human beings they are aimed at. Gosney and Hughes have made a strong contribution to the field by consolidating such a sweeping history of the field to help us more effectively advance it." —Ron Carucci, Managing Partner, Navalent and best-selling author of Rising to Power: The Journey of Exceptional Executives

'Gosney and Hughes provide the most thorough review of HRD's history in our field thus far. Their unique and thoughtful emphasis on philosophies highlights the assumptions that both define and potentially constrain HRD practice and theory. It's incumbent on practitioners to understand and critically reflect on HRD's foundations to shape and continuously improve their professional identity and practice. This book will be a key resource to aid in that critical process.' —Wendy E.A. Ruona, University of Georgia, USA

From the Publisher