Australian Experiential Learning Centre

Today we are adding a new blog called the The Naked Ape written by Nathan Taylor, our economics and behaviour science guru.

Nathan, the Senior Economist at the WA Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has a life-long interest in human behaviour and how this influences social dynamics. This interest has lead him to study human behaviour as understood by economics, psychology, personality and cognitive development theory.

Nathan uses breakthroughs in behavioural economics and neurobiology to lay bare the idiosyncrasies of what it means to be human. He also uses case studies, personality theories and the study of optimal experience to expose how every individual is gifted with the abilities they need to proactively transform their own life.

How does Nathan define his philosophy? With this quote from Francis Piscabia (Italian cubist):

“One should go through life, be it red or blue, stark naked and accompanied by the music of a subtle fisherman.”

Nathan’s study and insights on human behaviour and it’s link to economics is fascinating and highly recommended reading.

Read our new Blog, The Naked Ape

Last Friday, May 23rd, AELC CEO Tracey Hodgkins was interviewed by Kim Watkins and David Reyne on the TEN Network morning show 9am with david & kim. The show is broadcast live across Australia.

You can watch the interview below.

Thank you to the staff of Channel 10 in Perth for providing us with the video to share with you.

WA Business Icon™ 2008 Applications are now OPEN!!

Do you want to compete in a Donald Trump’s “The Apprentice” style competition?

Do you want to be crowned WA Business Icon™ 2008?

Do you want to win a holiday valued at $5,000?

Are you 18-25?

If this is you apply now!

Visit www.wa.australianbusinessicon.com to submit your application.

• Applications Open: Wednesday 14th May 2008
• Applications Close: Sunday 31st August 2008
• Competitions Dates: 8th – 18th October 2008

The Competition

WA Business Icon™ comprises four (4) pre-organised innovative and entrepreneurial business-related tasks. The contestants who perform best move onto the next task (or round) in the competition, while contestants that don’t reach such a level are eliminated from the competition. During the first three tasks, contestants are allocated to groups and must complete the task within a specified timeframe. Each group is provided with an objective and a set of rules that must be adhered to, however the contestants will determine how they approach the task. Moderators are assigned to each group to observe behaviour, supervise activity and answer questions. Each year the competition has a theme, though task details are kept strictly confidential until the competition begins.

Each group is required to present in front of a panel of judges at the end of each task. These judges, are professionals from various public, private or not-for-profit organisations will then announce who progresses onto the next task and who will have to leave the competition. Note that whilst contestants will be working in a group environment, judging will be based on individual performance.

The fourth and final task is performed individually and will be held at the “Final Event” on October 18th 2008. The winner of WA Business Icon™ 2008 will be announced at the conclusion of the Dinner whereby he/she will take home cash and prizes to the value of $5,000!

This year is the year of Workplace Etiquette! That seems to be the topic of the moment according to the many paper, radio and television interviews we are in lately. From a multitude of national radio interviews to the front page of CareerOne in the Weekend Australian, AELC CEO Tracey Hodgkins has been in constant demand for her input on the subject.

Next week, Friday 23rd May Tracey is appearing as the lead interview on the Network 10, 9am morning show with Kim Watkins and David Reyne.

Have a look below at what they are all talking about.

www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23666946-5010800,00.html

yourlifeworks.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=456348

www.news.com.au/business/story/0,23636,22398467-5012424,00.html