EHRD 603 - Applied Theoretical Foundations in HRD

EHRD 603 - Applied Theoretical Foundations in HRD

EHRD 603 established the theoretical foundation of Human Resource Development by examining the evolution of HRD as a discipline, its core frameworks, and its application within organizational contexts. The course emphasized theory-to-practice integration, program design grounded in HRD scholarship, and analysis of influential HRD professionals.

Major Group Project

SmarDEIs: A SMART Approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

View DEI Workshop Program Design

This group project involved designing a comprehensive three-day Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion workshop for Texas A&M University staff. The program integrated HRD theory, adult learning principles, organizational culture analysis, and SMART goal development to promote sustainable behavior change.

The workshop included:

  • Clear objectives aligned with HRD learning outcomes

  • Structured daily agendas

  • Interactive learning activities

  • Application of unconscious bias and inclusion frameworks

  • Formative evaluation planning

  • SMART goal implementation strategy

This project demonstrates:

  • Curriculum development

  • Organizational analysis

  • Adult learning alignment

  • Theory-driven training design

Researching an HRD Professional

Analysis of Dr. Diane Hamilton

View Analysis of Dr. Diane Hamilton

This assignment required researching and analyzing a prominent HRD professional to better understand leadership, influence, and innovation within the field. I examined Dr. Diane Hamilton’s work in curiosity research, leadership development, and organizational assessment tools.

This project strengthened my understanding of:

  • HRD professional pathways

  • Leadership development theory

  • Organizational consulting practice

  • The intersection of assessment tools and workplace performance

Professional Reflection

EHRD 603 provided the theoretical grounding for my graduate work. It clarified how HRD extends beyond training into organizational culture, leadership development, adult education, and systems thinking.

Through this course, I developed a stronger understanding of:

  • The evolution and scope of HRD

  • The integration of theory into practice

  • How program design reflects organizational values

  • The role of HRD professionals in shaping culture and performance

This foundational understanding informs how I approach my current HR role — not merely as administrative compliance, but as a strategic contributor to organizational learning and development.