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October, 2006
Volume 45 / Number 9
Quantitative, Qualitative, and Quasitative Inquiries in Human Performance Technology: Measure the Past, Observe the Present, and Imagine the Potential
by Sharon L. Bender, PhD
The author presents a complete picture approach to conducting investigations in the human performance technology (HPT) system. Applying a trio of inquiries (Q3), combining quantitative, qualitative, and quasitative approaches, enables practitioners to "measure the past, observe the present, and imagine the potential." Deploying HPT from this perspective helps practitioners to more thoroughly understand the complexities surrounding performance issues and to build a stronger case before ever attempting to select and promote an intervention. An amalgamation of devices is plausible in this dynamic approach. Benefit stems from asking pertinent questions in the investigative process. What has happened? What is happening? What will happen? These subquestions aid in the development of a grand tour research question, such as, What is the relationship between the past, present, and potential situations relative to the gap in performance? |
