Understanding the Corporate University phenomenon: a human capital theory perspective. (4th February 2010)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Greg G.; Li, Jessica; Qiao, Xuejun; Sun, Judy Y.
• Is Part Of: International journal of human resources development and management. Volume 10:Number 2(2010)
• Page Start: 182
• Page End: 204
• Publication Date: 2010-02-04
• Subjects: corporate universities -- higher education -- human capital theory -- specific skills -- general skills -- skill context -- theory building -- economics -- human resource development -- HRD -- human resource management -- HRM; Human capital -- Periodicals; Labor -- Periodicals; Labor economics -- Periodicals; 331.05
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1465-6612

Abstract

Corporate Universities (CU) have become a global phenomenon in organisations. This study investigated the CU phenomenon through the lens of human capital theory. Combined with a reflexive approach, we conducted a comprehensive review and analysis of literatures in economics and Human Resource Development (HRD). We found that, different from existing CU literature, as a HRD operational entity, the CU and the traditional university were rooted in different skills contexts. Theorising the CU phenomenon is to theorise HRD. We further explored an alternative model to understand the CU phenomenon. Implications for HRD research were also discussed.