A Needs-Based Professional Development Program for a Community Service Agency

Abstract

Global changes in the economy add pressure and competition to organizations and businesses. Today's work environment is dependent on skilled employees to perform tasks, increase productivity, and take organizations to the next level. Employee development and training is essential to the success of organizations. Successful training solely depends on how employees learn. Professional Development (PD) for adult employees in a community service organization benefits individuals by equipping them with skills that improve productivity and by increasing the probability of advancements. Described in this research study is a definition of Andragogy Theory or the art and science of adult learning. This research suggests that there is a benefit to any organization or business to have an understanding of adult learning theories. A framework is provided to understand how adult learners are different from children learners and how andragogy can impact professional development programs. Adult learning theories and models, such as andragogy, are significant when working with adults. The same concept applies to community service agencies or non-profit organizations that move toward designing a training and development model of programs for individual learning needs