In addition to this, our associate trainers are experienced
and skilled individuals who come from a wide range of relevant ‘real – life’
backgrounds. Their knowledge of the subjects they train is second to none and
the level of discussion and debate is stimulating and thought provoking
encouraging critical thinking and analysis. Workshops are lively interactive
environments where ‘talk and chalk’ methods are never used.
The combination of our materials, delivery methods and the
team who train them ensure that we are meeting the requirements of the Awarding
Body (CIPD, ILM or CIM) as well as providing students with the practical tools
to take back to their organisations for immediate implementation.
Every few years the Awarding Body (CIPD, ILM, CIM) will make
alterations to their ‘curriculum’ which results in complete changes to the
qualification structure. The development team at Oakwood UK are then required
to re-design the programme in its entirety in line with the quality assurance
and compliance requirements. This allows for a total review of all the
materials and very often the re-writing of assignments and assessments.
Although this is huge task for Oakwood (and all learning providers affected by changes) it is a necessity to ensure that the very latest models are being utilised, that core reading texts are up to date, that any research activities are referring to the very latest thinking. However, Oakwood don’t wait to be told of changes every three years or so – we actively seek them out and constantly review and update our materials.
The World of HR and L&D moves quickly and our intention
is to fully equip our students with the most relevant examples with which to
illustrate our workshops. As such, all
our associates ensure that they are well read and informed as to the latest
thinking and research activities in respect of the unit they are delivering. We
know our students are bright and well informed – particularly about regional
matters. As such, we must be able to respond to questions and be well versed in
critical changes and activities locally.
We are introducing Podcasts and TedTalks as part of our
delivery and ensure that these are reviewed and revised regularly. Our trainers
will advise the UK office of any specific research they have undertaken in
support of specific topics and these are cascaded to the other associates to
integrate within their delivery. We keep our ears and eyes on the ground for
regional changes and ensure that the very latest thinking is incorporated into
our materials.
Ensuring that students are able to relate their learning to
immediate practical application in the workplace is considered by Oakwood
International to be of paramount importance. As such, the information we share
must be relevant and reliable as well as meeting the standards of the
qualification specification for which they are studying.
By ensuring we are ‘keeping it real’ enables our students to
achieve great results in their assignments – in no small part because the
content is meaningful and current.
