Assessing Learning Needs

Three questions managers in higher education need to be asking:
  1. How is the work likely to change in your department over the next 5-10 years?
  2. What skill sets will employees in your department need in the future?
  3. What skills are you going to hire for, and what skills are you going to train for?
Consider the following areas which may provide insights into areas of learning needs:
  • Does the person have the ability to successfully achieve work objectives?
  • Does the person have the right attitude for the job?
  • What level of energy is demonstrated by the person?
  • Are they lacking specific areas of experience which need to be addressed?
  • Can the person work flexibly?
  • Does the person possess the interpersonal skills to work effectively in their area?
  • Does the person have the specific knowledge required for the post?
  • Does the person possess the people management skills for their position?
  • What is the person's level of productivity?
  • Does the person have the qualifications/skills necessary for their current or future desired positions?
  • Does the person have the ability to work effectively in a team?