Assignment Instructions:
This Module is the most "theoretical" part of our course curriculum. Learning and motivation theories are an important building block to training design and implementation. This assignment will require you to more deeply research one particular topic related to learning and motivation theory. Some topic suggestions include:
- Accommodation vs. Assimilation
- Alderfer's ERG Theory of Motivation
- Behavioral Theory in Learning
- Cognitive Theory in Learning
- Herzberg's Two Factor Theory of Motivation
- Learning vs. Performance Orientation
- Needs theory of Motivation
- Observational Learning
- Operant Conditioning in Learning
- Resistance to Learning
- Social Learning Theory
- Symbolic Coding and Rehearsal
- Vroom's Expectancy Theory of Motivation
Your mini research paper should include the following:
- A title page
- A brief Abstract to summarize your work
- Definition of and background/history on your topic
- A clear, applied explanation on how the topic relates to training & development
- An example of how best practices around the topic are used or have been used in one or more organizations
- A Reference page in APA format
FAQs:
How should I get started?
- Use the SLU library databases and search for sources on the term(s) that interest you- Google the term(s) that interest you and review how the topic is explored using credible web sources (e.g., Harvard Business Review, Bloomberg, Forbes, Inc., SHRM, etc.)
- Consider writing a rough outline/draft so that you address all the necessary components described above
How many pages?
Expect to take approximately 3-5 pages of body, double-spaced, 12 pt. font. Title, Abstract and Reference pages do not count toward body.
What about references?
There is no specific minimum number of references required, but at least 2 references must be from peer-reviewed/professional journals. Do your best to find references that are current, particularly when discussing best practices.