Issues and Challenges in Training HRM Practitioners by Distance Education

This paper reports on a study which determines the relative importance of factors that contribute to a high quality program in human resources, and which explores the effectiveness of distance education as the vehicle for delivery. The study considers the views of both students and their industry employers and finds that they place most importance on the distance education product, when compared to service and outcomes; and on the acquisition of knowledge when compared to other outcomes. Key challenges that emerge include the need for providers to align programs closer to industry requirements, the need for industry to support their personnel who are engaged in training, and for students to address issues related to their personal abilities and the nature of distance education.