Influencing People and Technology Using Human Resource Development (HRD) Philosophy

Abstract

Historically, American workers are continuing to be displaced by the productivity gains of technology and the competition for cheap laborers in a globalized economy. Human resource development (HRD) professionals are seeking ways to address rapid, continuous changes in technology and some, unfounded, fears and concerns regarding the influence of globalization on middle-class workers. Globalization efforts do not need to equal unemployment for American middle-class workers. Globalization can add opportunities for American middle-class workers to increase their job prospects by learning new skills, including how to leverage technological innovations for their advantage within the global job market. HRD professionals have an opportunity to assist workers with their skill development and improvement.

Key Terms in this Chapter

Operationalize: To put something to use or into operation.

Epistemology: The branch of philosophy that studies the nature of knowledge, in particular its foundations, scope, and validity.

Ontology: The most general branch of metaphysics, concerned with the nature of being; the study of existence.

Philosophy: A set of basic principles or concepts underlying a particular sphere of knowledge.

Axiology: The study of the nature, types, and governing criteria of values and value judgments.

Globalization: To become international or start operating at the international level, or cause something, especially a business or company, to become international.

Exogenous: Originating outside an organism or system.

Mutable: Tending or likely to change.