professional training, learning and development programs, facilitators, trainers, coaches, speakers, human resource, training, association, institute, courses: Learning Leaders

MARIE DAYTON is the Founder and Acting National President of the Institute of Learning and Development Professionals (ILDP). She has a diverse cultural background and a wide range of national and global strategic alliances and professional networks. Marie's passion has been to provide an International Standard of global excellence for L&D professionals.

I am involved in all aspects of managing an RTO as well as coordinating the development of National and International Standards for Learning Services Providers. I aim to make a difference in the field of Learning and Development, building a globally recognised profession for trainers and educators and through the ILDP (Institute of Learning & Development Professionals) provide accreditation for educators and learning providers similar to the CPA for accountants.

I began my career as a teacher and Headmistress in the school system and later moved into adult education and lecturing. In the late 1980s I became interested in Vocational Education Training (VET). I was involved in the development of Competency Based Training and Training Packages and eventually became an RTO.

I enjoy the variety of my different roles and the ability to share my knowledge and experience with other L&D professionals and help them reach their full potential. I get great satisfaction helping companies train truck drivers, laundry workers, process workers and other operational staff convert their on the job experience and lifelong learning into a qualification.

The biggest challenge for me is finding ways to help organisations provide flexible learning arrangements that satisfy the criteria stipulated in the Australian Quality Training Framework. It is also challenging to ensure transfer of learning to the workplace is effected and the organisation is satisfied with their return on investment.

I am results oriented and create solutions to address clients’ needs. I enjoy developing facilitative management practices that enable others to carry out their responsibilities and that involve all concerned in the decision-making process. I keep abreast of current developments in Learning and Business Management.

5. What is the best advice that you would give to a new Learning and Development practitioner?

Be enthusiastic and keep an open mind – be an agent for change. Understand your client’s needs – make sure transfer of learning occurs. Be flexible, innovate and be ready to learn from your experiences and from others.

6. What's the best advice that's been given to you that has helped you in your career?

Observe, listen and learn – ask for help and advice when necessary and don’t re-invent the wheel!

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey. The book lists seven principles that, if established as habits, are supposed to help a person achieve true interdependent effectiveness. Covey argues this is achieved by aligning oneself to what he calls "true north" principles of a character ethic that he believes to be universal and timeless.

“Training in the Age of the Learner” by Martyn Sloman, at HRD Week in London conducted by CIPD which illustrated how people learn at work before looking at what needs to change to help people learn effectively.

9. Who do you think is a highly inspirational learning professional and have you ever met this person?

I have had the privilege of hearing Stephen Covey speak and he is truly inspirational. Stephen Covey has dedicated his life to demonstrating how every person can truly control their destiny with profound, yet straightforward guidance. As an internationally respected leadership authority, organisational consultant, and author, his advice has given insight to millions.

Remember the wise proverb “Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish; and you have fed him for a lifetime."