Development Plan

 Development Plan

Crystal L. Young

Capella University

The exam I will be taking is the Associate Professional in Human Resources exam (aPHR). The aPHR is designed for entry-level human resources. When you pass this exam, it shows that you have the foundational knowledge in Human Resources.

The outline of the exam includes six functional content areas: 1) Health, Safety, and Security; 2) Employee Relations; 3) Human Resource Development and Retention; 4) Compensation and Benefits; 5) Recruitment and Selection; and 6) HR Operations. Mastering each area means that you contain the appropriate knowledge to perform tasks at an entry level (aPHR Exam Content Outline).

I have three years of entry level human resources experience. I mainly focused on the Recruitment and Selection and Employment Relations content of the exam. I was charged with reviewing applications, selecting applicants to be forwarded to the hiring manager for interviews, the on-boarding process, and also the off-boarding and the processing of termination paperwork.

My goal is not only to pass the exam but to ensure that I retain the information that I learn. The course content and the HCRP platform will help me by providing and reinforcing the information that I need to learn not only to pass the exam but to also function in the Human Resources field on the entry level.

There are several weaknesses that will hinder my focus while studying for the aPHR exam; however, I am determined to overcome my weaknesses. The first and biggest weakness is my Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. With this condition, it is challenging for me to maintain my focus for certain periods of time. In order to combat this condition, I will study in areas where there are minimal distractions and I will also take breaks in between studying when I feel my attention starting to go elsewhere.

Another weakness is that I don’t know how to study. I have to find a way to approach the study techniques that will work for me. According to opportunity.com, there are 10 habits that students, who are successful in studying for exams, form. The ten habits are: 1) Get Organized; 2) Don’t multitask; 3) Divide It Up; 4) Sleep; 5) Set a schedule; 6) Take notes; 7) Study; 8) Manage study space; 9)Find a study group; 10) Ask Questions (10 Habits of Successful Students). I believe that in order for me to be successful, I will need to look at the study materials and the content outline as a whole and then break them down into sections to study. I will take a pre-test or a practice test to see where I stand and what I need to focus on. I will then need to set a study schedule according to what I feel needs the most attention and follow it to ensure that I am spending enough time on the subjects that need it the most. I will need to create flashcards and take as many notes as possible. I can refer to the notes for reinforcements. When I feel like I have a better understanding and learned the material, I will take another practice test to gauge where I am in the studying process and to determine if there are other areas that may need more attention.