RF-1279.edited (2)

Topic: A journey of growth and professional development: from intern to full-time employee Student name Date

Contents 1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 3 2. Literature Review ........................................................................................................................ 3 2.1 Reflective Learning and Professional Growth ....................................................................... 3 2.2 Application of Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory ............................................................. 5 2.3 Professional Identity in the HR Journey ................................................................................ 5 2.4 Artful Blogs/Vlogs as Tools for Reflective Learning ............................................................ 6 3. Method ......................................................................................................................................... 6 3.1 Research Aim ......................................................................................................................... 6 3.2 Research Approach: Creative and Artful Embodiment .......................................................... 6 3.3 Positionality as a Researcher .................................................................................................. 6 3.4 Justification ............................................................................................................................ 6 4. Reflexive Account ....................................................................................................................... 8 Bibliography .................................................................................................................................. 11

Individuals can grow through reflective learning by taking an introspective approach to education. This approach is predicated on the idea that we learn from our mistakes and adapt our behaviour accordingly. People go from being onlookers to active participants in their growth when they take in and apply knowledge (Ripamonti et al., 2016). We can evaluate our decisions, outcomes, and experiences through reflective learning to grow as professionals. Interns and new hires can benefit from the HR field by applying reflective learning to their career trajectories. The human resources department has many moving parts; interns get a taste of them all during their internships. Mezirow's Transformative Learning Theory (Mezirow, 1991) is another practical framework because it emphasises the role of critical reflection and perspective shifts in promoting individual and career development. I could question and challenge my notions, beliefs, and assumptions about HR practises by engaging in critical reflection. This helped me to develop an accepting and welcoming attitude towards alternative HR strategies. In addition, Mezirow's theory highlights the significance of formative experiences in developing one's professional persona. One example is how I developed a more inclusive and ethical approach to human resources after facing and reflecting on difficult situations during my internship. However, I must assess these theories and how well they fit with my own life. According to one criticism, the contextual complexities and distinctive challenges encountered by HR professionals may need to be adequately captured by these theories. It is possible that these theories need to adequately account for the fact that human resources work frequently involves negotiating shifting power dynamics within organisations and cultural norms and expectations. The limitations and contextual factors that may affect the applicability and effectiveness of these theories in the HR field must be considered. Interns who take the time to reflect on their experiences during the internship will gain invaluable insight that will help them in their professional lives. They can consider the implications of their actions and their choices (Denzin, 2017). They will gain insight into their professional identities as they take stock of their successes and failures. Reflective learning is the way to go if you want to fill in any knowledge or skill gaps. Better performance, increased confidence, and a smoother entry into a full-time HR role are all potential outcomes. Janesick's

(2019) research shows that practitioners who engage in self-reflection have an advantage when dealing with the uncertainties and pressures of the workplace. In the human resources field, reflective learning is intertwined with emotional intelligence. Interns who take the time to reflect on their experiences develop a crucial skill for people- focused fields like human resources: the ability to recognise and control their own emotions and those of others (Snyder and Turesky, 2023). It helps HR professionals become better communicators and build stronger bonds with their employees. The development of HR professionals relies heavily on the practice of reflective learning. Interns benefit from increased self-awareness, motivation to learn, and emotional intelligence as they transition into full-time employees (Sicora, 2017). 2.2 Application of Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory The transition from intern to full-time employee is complex, and Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory (ELT) provides a helpful framework for understanding this process. This theory is applicable across the HR spectrum, mainly when dealing with complex and uncertain environments akin to the lowlands of a swamp (Calderhead, 1989). During the internship, the intern is exposed to various areas of the human resources department and allowed to learn by doing. This hands-on training will prepare me for a career in human resources and give an edge in areas like recruitment, onboarding, and HR data system administration. Internships in HR's swampy lowlands present interns with real-world problems that test their problem-solving and flexibility (Denzin and Lincoln, 2008). Understanding the swampy lowlands requires reflective observation, the second stage of ELT. The intern's ability to draw meaningful conclusions from their experiences hinges on their capacity for introspection. An intern may, for instance, be thrust into a complex and unpleasant employee grievance procedure. The intern can learn about the nuances of conflict resolution, the value of active listening, and the importance of empathy in HR practices by reflecting on this experience (Watson, 2008). The third step, abstract conceptualisation, entails making inferences and formulating hypotheses based on the considerations made in the bog. As the internship progresses, the intern develops an appreciation for the significance of ideas like cultural fit in hiring and the value of honest

professionals, who must often deal with sensitive situations and navigate their own complex emotions, can benefit significantly from this type of reflective learning. An HR professional's development, from intern to full-time employee, can benefit significantly from reflective learning and its practical application in the form of artistic vlogs or audio blogs. It is a great way to get to know other professionals, discover your vulnerabilities, and develop professionally. 3. Method 3.1 Research Aim The study aims to learn more about how HR interns' personal and professional identities change from trainee to full-time workers. Focusing on the pillars of ethical practice, courage to challenge, and drive to deliver within the CIPD framework, it investigates the obstacles faced and lessons learned (Eikeland, 2012). 3.2 Research Approach: Creative and Artful Embodiment The journey will be explored freshly and excitingly, using creative and artistic methods. As an artistic embodiment, Poetics will be used to distil the range of feelings, thoughts, and insights felt during this time of change. Creative elements like photographs, drawings, poetry, and metaphors can help researchers convey their findings more effectively (Nye et al., 2016). 3.3 Positionality as a Researcher Positionality is how a researcher's social, cultural, and personal background affects their study. As the researcher, I am aware of my role as a human resources expert interested in charting and discussing the development of the HR profession. Knowing that knowledge is inherently subjective and that making meaning during the research process is crucial, I take an epistemological stance consistent with interpretivism. Regarding the nature of reality, I take the constructionist stance advocated by Guba and Lincoln (1994). 3.4 Justification The methodology, positions, and approaches selected support the research aim, yielding an in- depth comprehension of the individual's personal and professional maturation. The research employs a novel and artistic strategy to break new ground in data analysis. With this method, researchers can delve more deeply into the experiences and thoughts that inform their study.

Incorporating poetics as a mode of embodiment offers a fresh approach to self-expression and communication, capable of capturing subtleties and emotions that can be lost when relying solely on more conventional research methods. This method allows for a deeper connection with the audience and a more significant potential for knowledge transfer and impact through a more vivid and meaningful representation of the research findings. Table 1: Method (tabulation) - Single Experience or Life Event Steps Description Data and Behaviors 1. Description As an intern, I was assigned a project to redesign the company's onboarding process. In the vlog, this experience is discussed at [timestamp]. The data includes information about the project scope, timeline, and assigned tasks. 2. Feelings Initially, I felt overwhelmed and anxious due to the project's magnitude. However, I also felt excited about the opportunity to contribute significantly. I expressed my mixed emotions in the vlog and discussed how the experience evoked anxiety and enthusiasm. 3. Evaluation Upon reflection, I realised that my initial feelings were natural and expected when facing a significant challenge. I evaluated my skills, knowledge, and resources to assess my readiness for the project. In the vlog, I critically evaluated my emotional response and recognised the importance of self- assessment in overcoming challenges. 4. Analysis I analysed the project requirements, researched, and sought guidance from In the vlog, I discussed my steps to analyse the project, including

to continue expanding my knowledge and skill set. I took deliberate steps towards my professional goals after increasing my self-awareness through introspection. My conversations with instructors, superiors, and coworkers greatly influenced my reflective account. As a result of participating in these discussions, I was exposed to new ideas, had my assumptions challenged, and acquired new knowledge. I expanded my understanding of the HR field and gained perspective on my growth due to these conversations. I learned from these discussions the importance of continuous learning, critical reflection, and exposure to new viewpoints in advancing one's professional standing. In addition, I understood how the organisation's culture and climate impacted my development as an individual and an employee. My experience was shaped by the organisation's norms, values, and culture, so I had to do some soul-searching to figure that out. It allowed me to navigate obstacles better, cultivate meaningful relationships at work, and establish a solid foundation for my professional identity. The process of creating the reflexive account has been profound. Through journaling, self-reflection, and conversation, I have learned much about who I am, what I have been through, and how I can grow as an HR professional. It has helped me feel more accomplished in my career and more appreciative of the difficulties I have overcome. I am prepared for a successful career in human resources thanks to my newfound knowledge and commitment to introspective thinking. I have learned a lot and questioned many of my beliefs thanks to my discussions with professors, superiors, and peers. The diversity of opinions expressed in these discussions has broadened my understanding. Participating in these discussions has helped me develop a more nuanced appreciation for the HR field's complexity and a more analytical approach to overcoming challenges. I could better appreciate the impact of my upbringing on my professional development after expanding my reflective account to include the organisational and cultural context. The values, norms, and traditions of my organisation have significantly impacted who I am as a professional, allowing me to better align my priorities with those of the company as a whole.

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