Abstract

The environment of online business education has blossomed in the last decade in the United States, as well as in the rest of the world. Many different approaches have been used to provide students with a more convenient, still very high quality education that can help them to acquire the knowledge and to develop the necessary competencies to achieve success in their careers.

Competency-based education has emerged recently as an alternative, targeting a specific audience of learners, that have developed skills prior to getting a formal education in those areas. By being able to assess those competencies, competency-based programs can recognize the “learning-by-doing” that students have formerly been exposed to, therefore accelerating the completion of degrees and guaranteeing that students can bridge the gap between the knowledge acquired and the actions employers expect to have, when hiring the graduates.

Competency-based education, however, is not new to the United States or the educational system; it has been used for years in corporate training as well as trade schools. With that in mind, this review of literature will examine the history of competency education and the current trends in best practices.

Abstract

Since its inception, Jordan has experienced large-scale and diverse immigration waves from neighboring countries. The research focuses on the wave that took place during and after the Gulf War of 1991, which left a lasting impact on the country's economy, social fabric, and in particular on the IT industry. The research used a field survey of 37 local companies as well as the analysis and synthesis of various data, and relevant government laws and regulations to probe the impact of that wave. It concluded that, the immigrants caused a boom in all sectors of the economy, as evidenced by the phenomenal 16% growth in the economy in 1992. They created new businesses and competition in the IT industry, and brought technical skills and managerial expertise, that gave a boost to the IT sector and forced the acceleration of local market concepts such as consulting, specialization, and marketing. The Jordanian Government played a passive role at best through its laws, regulations, and practices. During the following decade, few Jordanian IT companies reaped the benefits of the revamped IT sector and attained international fame, when for example, Maktoob portal was acquired by Yahoo. It is hopeful that other countries can benefit from the Jordanian experience in dealing with the ongoing immigration waves and the diversity they bring with them.

Abstract

Companies and organizations that want to become or remain successful in the 21 century face a constant challenge of dealing with the great diversity existing in the world. That diversity presents itself in many dimensions such as gender, race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, culture, thinking, among many others. The diversity found in the workforce of most companies and organizations, including different generational cohorts of workers (Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y or Millennials) represent a great challenge to them, and a better understanding of that can lead to better outcomes. Facing diversity instead of avoiding it, is the beacon for a path towards success. This paper will discuss the impact of different generations in the workforce and how understanding and embracing different work values can lead to build effective and efficient multi-generational teams

Abstract

This case study provides guidance on managing the resistance while dealing with the change that happens in an organization. Specifically, in this case study research, the main focus is on downsizing that occurs in an organization and the actions taken to overcome resistance to accept downsizing. The methodology that has been used in this case study research is through gathering primary data while conducting interview session with the Human Resource Manager of Ledzworld. Besides, the authors have gathered some secondary data through research journals in order to support their findings. In this case study, the authors have found that, Organizational Development (OD) practitioner should conduct an effective communication with employees who are affected from downsizing. Furthermore, Negotiating with employees can also reduce the aftershock of downsizing. OD practitioner should also regain the confidence of the existing employees, by giving rewards to the employees who have contributed to the organization’s success. Moreover, leadership of managers play a vital role in motivating the existing employees to be more positive towards the organization, as well as reducing the resistance to change. In short, the authors conclude that, OD practices that have been used by Ledzworld are appropriate and effective in order to reduce the resistance towards change.

Abstract

The purpose of this case study is to explore the employer's perspective on the job skills required for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) based jobs. A corporate perspective is used to construct a framework for understanding the skills that affect new college graduates. A case study method is adopted involving purposeful sampling strategy of Aerospace & Defense Industry (A & D) organizations, from the Deloitte Toche Tohmatso Limited (DTTL) 2014 Global A& D sector financial performance study. The study provides a framework for meeting real world demands and presents a model that will identify key factors in the terms of skills required for the college graduates. The model of key factors from the A & D industry will improve the alignment between employer's requirements and high-wage, highdemand jobs. The study will help fill the gap on employer's expectations and necessary skills required to compete in the global economy. By propelling change in the way that universities help prepare their graduates with the necessary skills, will ensure an enduring impact on the workforce. College graduates that develop their skills, enjoy a competitive advantage over other graduates.