Workplace Learning: a literature review

Objective was to locate and synthesise literature about the 'how' or pedagogy of workplace learning, with particular emphasis on examples of 'best practice' in relation to apprenticeships and other forms of on-the-job training and also on workplace learning in relation to Competenz and specific industries (manufacturing, engineering, baking, food and beverage, maritime).
The Review aims to address five main questions:
- What are the best practice examples of workplace learning and what is it that makes them best practice? (That is, how do we know they are 'best'? What measures are used to determine their success?)
- What connections can be made between on-the-job training and off-the-job training?
- How do workers’ previous learning experiences and beliefs about learning affect their workplace learning experiences?
- What can theories about learning and knowledge tell us about learning in the workplace?
- Given learning theories, what are the implications from best practice examples for workplace learning programmes and providers, and further research, in New Zealand?
Report prepared for Competenz (the New Zealand Engineering Food & Manufacturing Industry Training Organisation Incorporated)
Author: Karen Vaughan, New Zealand Council for Education Research (NZCER)
Date: 2008
Workplace Learning: a literature review (.pdf 315 kb)