ASTD Houston Chapter Inc Releases RSS Feed

Got Fun?

noemail@astdhouston.org — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Sitting on a plane recently, I was struck by how long it’s been since I read some of the
good old “basics” in my training library. I was reviewing information to revise a course
and suddenly got wrapped up in the excitement and enthusiasm I felt the first time I read
about this subject – accelerated learning. The subject is less important than the feeling of
inspiration it brought up in me.

Am I the only one who sometimes gets so caught up in keeping up that I forget the stuff
I’ve known forever? Like how exciting it is to be a part of the learning industry, to
watch people’s faces light up when they “get it” for themselves. Or learning about team
building or leadership because you’re practicing with people who are living what they
teach….or the thrill of figuring out how to solve a problem with new technology…it’s so
much fun!

We know that learners create learning from their experience, and that it’s greatly
enhanced when they collaborate with others. Our education system, originating in19th
century values, certainly did not encourage collaboration or creative thinking. One sat,
seriously shut up, and listened to the all-knowing instructor.

Today, no matter how brilliant one is, it’s pretty much impossible to keep up with
changes and technology in isolation. And when you surround yourself with other bright,
passionate, motivated people, collaboration is easy and fun. Especially if they’re a bunch
of learning and development professionals! I’ve never met one that didn’t like to share
their expertise, have you?

So just for today, I will remember how fun this industry is. And that I don’t have to be
brilliant and know everything. I just have to be smart enough to surround myself with
other L&D professionals, ask questions, share ideas, and have fun collaborating!

Jump Start the New Year!

noemail@astdhouston.org — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 15:00:00 GMT

The great thing about beginning a new year the opportunity to start anew, and to re-commit to those things we feel are most important. Are you taking advantage of the ways the chapter can help you jump start your new year and reach your professional goals? Well, let me tell you how easy it is...;.. Reap the Benefits of volunteering at the Volunteer Summit on January 21st. Have you promised yourself you'll get more involved and connected in the Learning Community? This is one of the best opportunities you'll find all year! You'll learn about the committee volunteer opportunities, ask questions of the committee chairs, and meet others who enjoy similar interests. We believe the best place to volunteer is any area you feel passionate about! The more you get - from connections, to new skills, to sharing your talents and leadership opportunities - the more you'll grow and contribute to ASTD. Don't you owe it to yourself to make it easy? Join us! We promise to help you find the...

You On Video: Workshop on Showing Up & Being Heard

noemail@astdhouston.org — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 15:00:00 GMT

Want to learn how to shoot video? Want to learn about video lighting and video sound techniques? Want to learn how to speak on camera and develop on camera presence? Want to learn how to sound confident and look good on camera? Want to deliver a compelling message? Online Video like Skype, Google's Hangout, YouTube, and Vimeo is fast becoming the medium through which businesses communicate. Soon, everyone who does business will need to express themselves effectively on video. In the YOU on VIDEO Workshop, Kenan Branam and Sandra Zimmer share the secrets that will give you the confidence to project a message and an image out into the world using video. They will give you the support you need to present yourself on video, Skype and YouTube. Here is what you will learn how to do: Relax and feel confident speaking on camera. Make the camera transparent so that you are being with viewers rather than talking at them. ...

Have we stopped paddling?

noemail@astdhouston.org — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 21:00:00 GMT

You’ve all heard the joke about how a duck looks so placid and calm atop the water but under the water’s surface his feet are paddling as hard as they can. I ask the question, “Have we stopped paddling?” When the economy was claimed as “down turn,” “slow growth,” everyone was paddling as fast as they could to keep their jobs, pay down bills, repair and maintain rather than buy and build. Now that it looks like the economy is on an upswing have you stopped paddling and started looking for respite? Whoops…now it looks like a downturn again…wait a minute, it might have spiked…get the picture?

Learning should never stop, no matter what the economy brings. In fact, it’s often been said we can learn the most when times are tough because we seem to understand the priority of change, flexibility and focus. ASTD Houston has made a lot of changes from last year, and we continue to grow, focus and flex as we meet the needs of our members. Your continued learning is a result of your own effort and abilities. ASTD Houston offers monthly meetings, Community Training Networks, networking events, ASTD National classes as well as professional development events so learning opportunities never end. Keep on paddling to be prepared for whatever comes your way.

ASTD-Houston welcomes Dr. Thiagi for two exciting events

noemail@astdhouston.org — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 15:30:00 GMT

The American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) Houston Chapter would like to welcome Dr. Thiagi for two exciting events. Dr. Thiagi is recognized as the facilitator master of games and simulation in the ASTD Handbook for Workplace Learning Professionals. He is the self-described mad scientist at the Thiagi Group, whose mission is to help people improve their performance effectively and enjoyably. Thiagi has published over 40 books and his long-term clients include IBM, AT&T, Chevron, Arthur Anderson, & United Airlines. General Meeting- Networking, Dinner, & Learning Tuesday, April 26, 2011, 5pm-8:15pm Use a jolt! Experience for yourself how a quick jolt can be used to give a long-lasting wake-up call and powerful insights. Experience demonstrations of a series of jolts by Thiagi Key principles in the design, development, delivery, and debriefing of jolts will be derived from participants' experience ...

Volunteers Needed at ASTD International Conference

noemail@astdhouston.org — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 15:00:00 GMT

The ASTD International Conference in Orlando, FL is looking for volunteers. You get some great benefits by helping out this wonderful event May 22-25, 2011. Here are the details.

The Central Florida Chapter would like your assistance in sharing details regarding volunteering at this year's ASTD International Conference and Expo in Orlando, FL. If you are interested in volunteering, please take a moment to complete our volunteer registration by clicking on the "Register" button at the end of this message.

Please note:
• You may volunteer for a maximum of two (2) days
• While we will make every effort to place you in your preferred position, we can make no guarantees. The Volunteer Day Manager will delegate assignments as needed to meet the daily conference demands.
• Volunteers will receive one complimentary conference day per each full day of volunteering and additional days may be purchased at a deeply discounted rate.
• In order to receive the complimentary and discounted rates, volunteers must register for the conference on-site in Orlando after receiving a signed voucher from our volunteer base.
• All volunteers will be required to attend Orientation Webinars. Information regarding Volunteer Orientation will be emailed upon confirmation of your registration.

Additional information for volunteers can be found on our Central Florida Chapter ASTD website:
http://www.cfc-astd.org/Default.aspx?pageId=877754

Thank you for your interest in volunteering. We're looking forward to a great conference!

March Westside CTN Meeting - It was a good one!

noemail@astdhouston.org — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 21:00:00 GMT

If you didn’t attend the March 2011 Westside CTN meeting, you missed a great presentation on how to structure effective presentations. Alan Duncan, a Silver Houston ASTD sponsor, provided his insights on helping corporate SMEs develop and deliver effective training sessions instead of just data dumps. Even those of us who considered ourselves “seasoned” trainers had “ah ha” moments.

Alan suggested building the body of your presentation first – working each key point one at a time. For each key point, you should prepare what you want to say to introduce the learning point (gaining your audience’s attention) and then present relevant information. Decide on the effective order of the key points. Plan activities and prepare bridges by recapping the main message of the key point and transition to the next key point. Then, develop your closing and opening statements. At this point, you can decide what you will use to support your key points – which might be a PowerPoint presentation (or not)! Finally anticipate challenges and questions. Go back and add this content to your presentation.

Consider attending a CTN meeting next month – you’ll never know what you will learn! Remember, meetings are free and open to all. There’s always the opportunity to network with your peers. For the latest schedule, check the webpage at http://www.astdhouston.org/en/cmt/?14.

An Ice Scraping Texan

noemail@astdhouston.org — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 20:00:00 GMT

ASTD Houston is a repository for shiny, clean tools in the form of networking, internal trainers, consultants, professional development events, monthly meetings, community training networks (CTN), Career Transition Special interest groups, volunteer events and webcasts.

Do you need to know about the value of learning?
- March 22 the monthly meeting focuses on that.
Do you need to know about employee motivation and engagement?
- The April 27 monthly meeting can show you more about that.
What about technology; is that an important part of your learning technique?
- The June 24 Technology Conference focuses on today’s transition from classroom into learning anytime, anywhere.
Do you have a selection of consultants that can listen, advise and prepare you to meet customer/employee needs?
- The Professional Providers directory does that.
Do you have the tools that the ASTD Chapter Sponsors offer?
- The University of Houston Continuing Educations Department, Houston Community College, Alan Duncan Training, Write Wise Communications and People Possibilities all businesses that recognize training and development and pursue positive solutions to any challenge.

Being a member and active volunteer in ASTD Houston secures my place in proactive, current and timely learning activities. I didn’t know I needed an ice scraper in Casper, WY, but I’m glad someone saw my need and handed me a solution. What solutions are you looking for today? ASTD Houston is the tool box you need to get started, ramp up, keep up, or lead the pack.

Measuring the Value of Learning

noemail@astdhouston.org — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 20:00:00 GMT

Measuring the Value of Learning Making the Case for Training: How can we measure training effectiveness and build a chain of evidence for its value? Join ASTD Houston and presenter Candice Lainer to find out more about: What the best performing companies invest in training Defining business impact areas and focusing on what's most important to executives Creating credible, documented evidence of impact About the Speaker: During her 11 year career at SkillSoft, Candice Lainer has worked with clients to deliver maximum e-learning value to their business using best practices, tools, processes and strategies to align e-Learning programs with company business drivers. Candice's clients have included Shell, Administaff, Verizon, St. Luke's Hospital, Exxon Mobile and Reliant Energy, among others. Register today for the March General Meeting. Visitors are always welcome! When: Tuesday, March 22, 2011 ...

Calling all Members

noemail@astdhouston.org — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 19:00:00 GMT

Calling all members and nonmembers who want an update of ASTD Houston event. Register for the free conference call Friday, March 4 from noon to 1:00 p.m. Hear from the Board Members and their committees about upcoming events like the Technology Conference, member discounts and the CTNs. You won't want to miss this opportunity to ask questions about ASTD Houston and hear the benefits of joining the wonderful group. Please register for this free event.

Volunteer Summit

noemail@astdhouston.org — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 20:00:00 GMT

The Volunteer Summit offers ways to come be a super shining star from among FUN & INTERESTING ways to:

¯ Get Connected– the Volunteer Summit is the fastest, easiest way to meet and get to know other ASTD rising stars and T&D supernovas.

¯ Find Volunteer Opportunities- Committee VP Super Stars will showcase for you the numerous opportunities — from committee positions to projects, short or long term, on-going or one-time tasks — whatever fits your schedule & interests.

¯ Develop Your Career and Skillsby matching where YOU SHINE with opportunities in:

« Marketing & Communications

« Professional Development and Programming

« Finance

« Conference/Meeting Planning

« Technology — Website, Technical Support

« Membership — Recruiting, Greeting & Welcoming,

Informational Meetings, Volunteer Coordination

« Sponsorships — Contacting Local Companies, PR

« Leadership Opportunities on various committees

« Special Interest Groups, Community Training Networks

Join us Saturday, February 19th at RAC, 1880 South Dairy Ashford, Houston, TX 77077. Let your star shine on!

CPLP Interest?

noemail@astdhouston.org — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 19:00:00 GMT

Certified Professional in Learning & Performance (CPLP) is a comprehensive evaluation of knowledge of the ASTD Competency Model. It requires passing a written test and submitting details of one of your projects that reflect the levels of this model. ASTD Houston offers study groups for those interested in achieving this certification. Most people are interested, but not all want to make this personal development option a commitment. If you’re interested in joining a CPLP study group to help you through this certification process, please email s.hurst@ssss.com.

Dr. Lipkin Testimonial

noemail@astdhouston.org — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 19:30:00 GMT

I recently attended two ASTD sessions with Dr. Nicole Lipkin presenting the topic “Developing the Next Generation of Learners”. She provided many insights into what employers and trainers will face in the coming years as baby boomers retire and younger workers move up through the ranks. During the presentation, I learned good ideas for implementing new practices that will attract and retain workers from generation Y and how to find middle ground to negotiate cultural differences. This was a very worthwhile interactive presentation and I hope to attend many more like it here in Houston. Thank you for hosting it!.

Dr. Lipkin Testimonial

noemail@astdhouston.org — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 19:00:00 GMT

Dr Lipkin was engaging, entertaining and successfully challenged our established attitudes towards Generation Y. The new information was helpful! It was good to see a full turnout with many new faces in the group. All in all a great event to start the New Year.

President's Corner January 2011

noemail@astdhouston.org — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Time's up; time's a wastin'; time out - the New Year forces us to focus on time. It's been said that The clock has decided to take time into its own hands. Rather than counting down the time before our new resolutions bust, let's evaluate our professional and personal priorities for 2011. My priorities this year are health, knowledge and community. My health must be maintained, so I can achieve the priorities I have set.My knowledge must expand so I can see the world through eyes of the new year. My community must prosper through my influence and growth occur within my network. Rather than watching the clock, I'll look for events/projects where I can work toward these priorities. ASTD Houston is the best place where I can prioritize events in 2011. January the member and professional development event focuses on communication with Dr. Nicole Lipkin. February the member meeting focuses on accountability with Tony Bridwell....

January Monthly Meeting

noemail@astdhouston.org — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 15:00:00 GMT

January 11 is the first ASTD member meeting of 2011. Members, join us to renew professional relationships and share your New Year’s plans. Guests, join us to learn about ASTD Houston, meet some members and introduce yourself to others in your field.

Sheraton Houston Brookhollow, 3000 North Loop Freeway, Houston, 77092 is the place. To learn more about ASTD Houston as a guest or new member a 5:15 information meeting is held just for you. Networking begins at 5:30 with dinner and the program beginning at 6:00. Nicole Lipkin, President of Equilibria Coaching and Consulting Services speaks on “Challenging the The Top Ten Generation Y Myths in the Workplace.”

Members placed a priority on the monthly meetings through the 2010 member survey. You spoke, we heard - so register today at www.astdhouston.organd show up January 11. Looking forward to seeing you there!

ASTD HOUSTON CHAPTER BOARD POSITION OPEN

noemail@astdhouston.org — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 16:00:00 GMT

The Vice President of Professional Development ASTD Houston Board position is open. This position is a vital part of the Chapter and participates in the majority of deliverables offered to membership.

The Professional Development Committee of ASTD Houston is dedicated to providing value-added development opportunities that meet the needs of workplace learning and performance (WLP) professionals in the greater Houston area and surrounding communities. Our goal is to provide both basic and advanced topics so that every member has an opportunity to grow. We incorporate feedback from our members and community WLP leaders to develop our program offerings.

Required skills are: excellent communication, negotiation, project management, networking and Chapter focus. Time required includes monthly meetings, phone and email as well as event attendance. If you’re interested in learning more about the VP of Professional Development, please email me at s.hurst@ssss.com. Volunteer participation is what makes this Chapter a wonderful representation of the knowledge and learning community in Houston and the surrounding area.

Developing the Next Generation of Leaders

noemail@astdhouston.org — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 18:00:00 GMT

As their numbers in the worldwide workplace almost double in the next five years, what will Generation Y's effect on the workplace be? Find out more in this fascinating 1/2 day Professional Development event! Developing the Next Generation of Leaders Workshop promises: Insight into the influences that have shaped Gen Y's attitudes, values, and behaviors Specific solutions to help leaders and managers learn to effectively manage Gen Y employees related to motivation, work ethic, performance, and leadership Concrete ways to apply what you learn to improve learning and development initiatives on both organizational and individual levels Strategies for dealing with intergenerational issues in training, engaging, managing, and leveraging the strengths of all generations in the workplace. Learn from internationally known speaker and consultant Nicole Lipkin, PsyD, MBA, an internationally known speaker, consultant, and co-author of Y in the Workplace:...

Challenging the Top 10 Myths of Generation Y in the Workforce

noemail@astdhouston.org — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:00:00 GMT

We've all heard the complaints about Generation Y... such as they want everything to be fun, they can't be retained, they expect to be promoted to CEO tomorrow. This hour long presentation will challenge participants to turn their complaints and commiseration into action by: * Rethinking our beliefs about Gen Y's ability to successfully transition into the workplace * Exploring how to integrate Gen Y into the workplace * Seeing how we -regardless of our generation - can be positive change agents in helping our organizations succeed when it comes to leveraging human capital Our presenter for the evening, Nicole Lipkin, PsyD, MBA, is an internationally known speaker, consultant, and co-author of Y in the Workplace: Managing the 'Me First Generation' Dr. Lipkin, featured on NPR, NBC, CBS, Fox Business News and numerous other media outlets, is an expert on helping companies to recruit, engage, manage and develop top talent. Jump start the New Year...

You asked for it, you got it! CTN Online Webinar

noemail@astdhouston.org — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 20:00:00 GMT

You asked for it, you got it! One of the items requested at the "Taking it to the Next Level" meeting last month was for ASTD Houston to schedule regular online webinars. Look for more online webinars in 2011.

The Community Training Network (CTN) held its first webinar on Dec 14, 2010. TheNational Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) designates January as “Get Organized Month.”January is a logical choice: we wake from a holiday‑induced dream state to realize that we’ve let things go. We need to get our lives and spaces back in order! Gayle Goddard offered ideas for starting the year off on the right foot. Let’s include “getting rid of cluttering” in our business and personal goals for 2011! .

The Community Training Network (CTN) provides an opportunity for you to meet other workplace learning and performance professionals in your part of town and discuss topics that are important to you. ASTD Houston sponsors CTN meetings throughout Houston and the surrounding area. Check us out at

http://www.astdhouston.org/en/cmt/?14.