Learning and debating at at 16th International Conference on Human Resource Development Research and Practice across Europe: David Storrs and Kevin Hannigan from hpc give a Practitioner’s Perspective on conference highlights.

With a theme of evidence-based research to bridge the gap between academia and practice, this event brought together academic and practitioners to explore core issues in development including Talent Management, Leadership Development and the Evaluation of Learning Interventions.

Without a doubt, the highlights of the event in terms of papers delivered were the four keynotes which included a range of academic and practitioner perspectives from Irish and International speakers.  A personal highlight was Sandra Robinson’s presentation on Trust and particularly how leaders can build trust.  She even had some interesting societal observations on how to repair trust!

Outside of the lecture rooms, there were almost 200 papers presented on various topics and lively debate and engagement on a number of issues. As well as the serious business of the week, there was also time on Thursday night to enjoy the delights of “the Big Shed” at Ballymaloe for some great food, drink and rumour has it, a little bit of dancing….

Thanks to Ronan Carberry and all of the team at UCC for a well-organised and stimulating week.