Towards a New Vision of Learning in the Public Service

Abstract

Learning within organisations tends to be organisationally driven, subject oriented and focused on content acquisition. Formal courses reflecting traditional student/teacher roles tend to be the norm. Adult learning theory suggests adult learners are self‐directing, problem centred and bring a variety of experience to the learning situation. These characteristics provide a foundation for an alternative approach to both learning in groups and the management of individual learning within the organisational context. The strategic approach to learner centred development is suggested as a method of facilitating and supporting individual development and integrating organisationally‐driven learning needs into an individual learning strategy. Recommendations relative to learning within the public service are included.

Citation

Dodge, R.B. (1991), "Towards a New Vision of Learning in the Public Service", International Journal of Public Sector Management, Vol. 4 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/09513559110143878