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Learning and getting to know: the case of knowledge workers

In this paper, it is argued that the terms knowledge work, knowledge workers and knowledge-intensive firms point to emerging social structures and processes in organisations. This focus allows us to analyse organisations in ways that differ from the notions involving less dynamic forms of organisational configurations. It is further argued that the emphasis on knowledge in organisations raises a fundamental question of learning, i.e. how knowledge workers acquire relevant knowledge. However, the answer to this depends on how organisational life and work are understood and conceptualised. Three focuses are suggested: organisations viewed through their use of technology, the division of labour, and the social interactions in organisations. These three focuses relate to different understandings of learning, namely learning as cognition, as situated, and as the reconstruction of experiences. To illustrate both the emphasis on knowledge and the different perspectives on learning, a case study will be presented.

In this paper, it is argued that the terms knowledge work, knowledge workers and knowledge-intensive firms point to emerging ...  Show Full Abstract  

Authors: Elkjaer, Bente
Date: 2000
Journal title: Human resource development international
Resource type: Article
Subjects: Technology; Research; Teaching and learning;

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