Have finally find time to look at my research project - in between occupying small child and preparing a paper/presentation for another conference see:
http://conferences.alia.org.au/newlibrarian2006/abstracts.php#uthmann.
Today I looked at the secondment policies I had collated and looked for similarities. Most universities have very similar policies, although not all mention setting objectives (I mentioned this in a previous post). Having been on many secondments myself, none required that I set objectives however, they were all required to be managed through the Performance Planning and Review program. This was usually achieved by listing the job requirements (description) and ensuring I was able to meet all requirements during the duration of the secondment and that all of my professional development was recorded.
It is my view that if an organisation would like to use secondments as a means of professional development for their staff, that objectives are set prior to commencing the secondment and that these are reviewed throughout. This ensures that the staff member participating in the secondment is not just "sitting" in a position but actually gaining skills, knowledge and performing the position to the supervisors/managers standard.
Is there anyone out there who has completed a secondment where they had set objectives? I'd like to hear from you.
On a side note, Anaki is now 9mths old. Being a mum still occupies the majority of my time but I do have the odd moment where I can put on my "career hat" (like now). I am now facilitating Butterfly Wings in 3 venues - Gailes Community House, Goodna Community Health Centre (Goodna Mothers' Group) and Elorac Place Playgroup Carole Park. This along with mothers group and swimming lessons keeps me busy!!
Hope to catch up with some of you at NLS in Sydney - I'll be there on Saturday 2nd December for my presentation.
