CHAPTER 4

The Role of Theory and Philosophy in

Human Resource Development

Chapter 4 – The Role of Theory and Philosophy in Human Resource Development Chapter Outline

• Introduction• Recognizing the Theory- Development Journey as Research • Requirements of a Sound Theory • Philosophy and Theory Underlying HRD• Philosophical Metaphors for HRD Theory and Practice -- Contributed by Karen E. Watkins• Conclusion• Reflection Questions

Introduction

• Importance of Theory • Importance of Theory Development

• Definition of Theory • Theory-Development Process

Recognizing the Theory-Development Journey as Research

Requirements of a Sound Theory

Philosophy and TheoryUnderlying HRD

Philosophical Metaphors for HRD Theory and Practice -- Contributed by Karen E. Watkins

• Organizational Problem Solver

• Organizational Change Agent/ Interventionist or Helper

• Organizational Designer

• Organizational Empowerer/ Meaning Maker

• Developer of Human Capital

Chapter 4 Reflection Questions

1. Why would someone argue that good theory is practical?2. What is theory? Give a definition and an explanation.3. Of the HRD theory references cited on pages _______ , which one interests you the most? Why?4. Which of the five philosophical metaphors for HRD theory presented by Dr. Karen Watkins makes the most sense to you? Explain why? 5. Which of the five philosophical metaphors for HRD theory makes the most sense to a high-tech business organization? Explain why.