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Integrating learning with working: A reconception of the role of workplace learning
Author(s) -
Torraco Richard J.
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
human resource development quarterly
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.756
H-Index - 65
eISSN - 1532-1096
pISSN - 1044-8004
DOI - 10.1002/hrdq.3920100305
Subject(s) - psychology , workplace learning , knowledge management , social psychology , work (physics) , computer science , engineering , mechanical engineering
The nature of work continues to evolve from predictable, deterministic patterns to forms that are more contingent and idiosyncratic. The evolution of work and of the expertise needed to perform it have not been accompanied by innovations in the models used by workplace educators to develop this expertise. For some technical work roles, present models are inadequate for developing the skilled performance the roles require. Using in‐depth accounts of actual work activity, this article examines changes in how work is accomplished. Emergent themes from selected work settings are analyzed against present models of employee development. Using the theories of situated learning and distributed cognition, a reconception of the role of learning interventions is proposed that more fully integrates learning with working.