Employee Learning and Development - Essay Example

Employee learning is a continuous process, which starts with the first day of an employee in a company. An employee starts learning different skills required to perform the job. Employee development is a future-oriented process. The main purposes of employee development include improving the quality of the employees, retaining key employees, and incorporating technological advances. “An employee in need of career guidance can speak to the HR director of his or her company” (Jeffress, n.d.).

Some of the most effective learning theories that HR planners use to improve employee learning include reinforcement theory, social learning theory, and goal theory. Some of the learning styles used in the process of learning include divergers, assimilators, convergers, and accommodators. Employees learn through observation, experience, and interactions.

In the employee development process, HR planners help employees identify their needs and development goals to make them initiate the development process. Gordon (2006) states, “Employee development programs are essential to improve morale as well as to motivate the employees to perform well”. Some of the methods used in the employee development process include assessment, formal education, job experiences, and interpersonal relationships. Structured development plans are very useful for employee development. “Structured development plans encourage greater understanding of the job role” (Nathoo, 2011).