Why this blog on workplace learning?

Why is workplace learning so important?

Workplace learning is a critical component of skills development - but it is the most neglected. It is seldom recognised, codified or implemented in a structured way. Yet is is the oldest and most powerful form of learning that humans engage in, whatever their race culture, gender or social status. It is the same learning process that we see in children learning to walk, speak and play. Children learn to acquire skills through combination of modelling on others, trial-and-error, feedback from others, social interactions and goal attainment. This form of learning is driven by contextual needs and is dependent on the learner interacting with his or her context and environment.

Workplace learning follows a similar pattern, but can be deepened through reflection, or double-loop learning. The learning pattern is also is not just confined to the place of work, i.e. the place where one earns a wage, salary or income. It is also found in social and community settings and activities, in the home, in recreational activities, such as sport, hobbies and even in spiritual activities.

This learning pattern is, however, far more important than merely acquiring notional job skills. It is also key to acquiring values, attitudes and standards.

The consequences of poor workplace learning practices are evident all around us, poor quality workmanship or service, lack of maintenance or service delivery.

So if want an improvement in standards of service and workmanship (workpersonship?), then we are going to have to pay attention to workplace learning.

Why workplace learning is not effective I'll discuss in another post.