Learning in organizations: HR implications and considerations

This paper looks at learning in organizations as one response to competitive pressure and accelerating environmental change. Two approaches, the learning organization and HRD, are examined in the light of new models of management and learning and a move towards the integration of work, learning, and strategy. The significance of employee participation is considered in relation to learning and some benefits and drawbacks discussed. The development of a learning orientation is seen as an organization-wide responsibility but HR practitioners can play a key role in the promotion of learning by gearing the more traditional HR activities towards the achievement of organizational goals.