Shillong, June 13: An Impact Fellowship Lecture on “Attitudinal Development” was delivered by Dr. Abhijit Chakraborty, CEO Cocoberry at North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong today at the Social Science Cluster Classrooms.
This event was jointly organized by Shillong Chapter, Indian Society for Training and Development (ISTD), New Delhi; North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong and Rotary Club of Orchid City Shillong (RCOCS).
The Inaugural Session started with the welcome address by Prof. Sunil K. Dey President, International Association of Geomorphologists; Honorary Secretary, ISTD.
He welcomed the gathering and highlighted the importance of several factors that influence attitudinal development, including socialization, personal experiences, education, and knowledge.
Prof. L. Cajee, National Council Member, ISTD in his address enlightened the audience about the professional organization ISTD, based in New Delhi that focuses on promoting and enhancing the training and development field.
The society was established in 1970 and has since played a crucial role in shaping the training and development industry in India. He mentioned that ISTD serves as a platform for professionals in India to connect, learn, and contribute to the field of training and development, with the ultimate goal of improving individual and organizational performance.
Prof. Devesh Walia President, RCOCS; Vice-Chairman, ISTD in his address highlights the significant influence of socialization on attitudinal development. Interactions with family, friends, peers, and broader societal influences shape individuals’ attitudes through exposure to diverse perspectives and beliefs.
Understanding these socialization processes can help in fostering empathy, tolerance, and inclusivity, creating a more harmonious and cohesive society. He also emphasized the impact of media and communication on attitudinal development.
The Chief Guest of the program, Dr. Abhijit Chakraborty, CEO, Cocoberry, in his Fellowship Lecture mentioned the role of cognitive processes in attitudinal development. Individuals tend to seek information that confirms their existing attitudes, but exposure to new information and contrasting viewpoints can challenge and modify attitudes.
This insight highlights the importance of critical thinking and being open to diverse perspectives to foster attitudinal flexibility and growth. He mentioned that attitudinal development is not a linear process and can vary from person to person. Some attitudes may be more resistant to change, while others may be more malleable.
Attitudinal development can occur gradually over time or be triggered by significant life events or influential experiences. It is important to note that attitudes can have a significant impact on individual behaviour and interactions with others.
Understanding the factors that shape attitudinal development can help individuals and society better navigate differences and foster open-mindedness and tolerance.
New members joining the ISTD were felicitated for their significant contributions in their field of work. Rotary Youth Leadership Awardees (RYLA) Ms. Labli Das; Ms. Susmi Dutta and Ms. Nidhi Kumari were also felicitated, and they shared their experiences while contributing to the Rotary.
The Chairman’s remarks were delivered by Prof. Lucy Zehol, Dean, School of Human and Environmental Sciences, NEHU followed by the Vote of Thanks by Dr. Sudipta Ghosh, Assistant Professor, Department of Anthropology, NEHU.
