The rise of learning and development – forty years of change

The aim is to trace important aspects of the changes in organizational learning and development over the 40-year history of this journal.

The paper is a Viewpoint.

Changes from the use of “training” to more of a focus on “learning and development” are evident. However, some of this appears to be re-badging and not necessarily changing the focus of the work.

The impact of AI needs significant investment in new research.

A real focus on learning is important in helping organizations change for the better.

The historical examples point to the value of this journal in being at the forefront of change in the fields of L&D, organizational development and leadership development.