Saturday, 19 May 2012

Online Degrees in Training and Performance Improvement: Program Overviews

Online degree programs in training and performance improvement prepare students to develop, facilitate, oversee, improve and manage business processes. Learning theory, human performance and instructional design are some of the concentrations in the master's degree.

Online Master's Degree in Training and Performance Improvement Overview

These master's degree programs focus on the methodology, foundations, technology, design, measurement and improvement of training. Practical and conceptual instruction teaches students to apply the techniques in the workplace. Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree, and schools may prefer a background in training, performance improvement, human resources or instructional design.

Program Information and Requirements

Online master's degree programs in training and performance require about 36 credit hours of study. All courses are delivered via the Internet; however, some schools also offer on-campus coursework or require an in-person orientation session prior to starting the program. These programs are designed for working professionals, and most are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Some schools also require continuous enrollment throughout the program.

Common Online Courses in Training and Performance Improvement Degree Programs

Master's degree-level courses in training and performance improvement concentrate on advanced skills in designing, delivering, assessing and improving educational programs and processes in business. A thesis with defense, research project or portfolio may also be required to complete these programs.

Needs Assessment Course

Students are taught to use current methods and techniques, case studies, tools, data and systematic processes to identify and assess educational design and delivery. Preventing future training problems and motivating adult learners are also concentrations of the course.

Instructional Design Course

Lessons in this course focus on the processes of instructional design, as well as using those processes effectively in training and performance technology. The course also concentrates on theories, practices, instructional interventions, proactive strategies, learner characteristics and effects of technology on work-place training programs.

Adult Learning Theory Course

This course studies the learning processes, characteristics and motivational tools tailored to adult learners, and factors affecting learning outcomes. Students learn to solve real-life workplace problems using adult learning principles.

Career Information for Graduates

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that training and development specialists earned a median wage of $52,120 in May 2009 (www.bls.gov), and wages for training and development managers were $88,090. In 2008, about 216,600 were employed as training and development specialists, and about 30,400 in management.

Continuing Education Information

Students of training and performance delivery can also achieve voluntary certification through the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD). The organization requires work experience and a passing score on an examination to achieve certification.

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