Becoming an expert: developing expertise in an applied discipline

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the development of expertise in an applied discipline by addressing the research question: How is professional expertise developed in an applied profession?

Design/methodology/approach

Using a grounded theory methodology (GTM), nine technical-tax experts, and three experienced, non-expert tax professionals were interviewed regarding their experience in developing technical-tax expertise. Using GTM procedures, a core concept and variables (categories and properties of categories) were identified. A theory is advanced which explains the interaction of the core concept and the variables.

Findings

This theory proposes that expertise in applied disciplines occurs through years of engaging in the high-value, non-routine work. Professionals with an intelligence matched to the discipline and willingness to work hard are more likely to be successful in this non-routine work. Professionals who find the discipline fascinating and who revel in ambiguity are likely to repeatedly seek this non-routine work. Finally, professionals in organizations with complex client issues are more likely to have opportunities to engage in non-routine work.

Research limitations/implications

This study proposed a theory related to a very specific profession – tax accounting. Future research would be appropriate to determine whether other applied disciplines have a similar dynamic in developing expertise.

Originality/value

Based on existing theories of expertise, this study developed a new theory of how professional expertise is developed in an applied discipline.

Citation

Kuhlmann, D.O. and Ardichvili, A. (2015), "Becoming an expert: developing expertise in an applied discipline", European Journal of Training and Development, Vol. 39 No. 4, pp. 262-276. https://doi.org/10.1108/EJTD-08-2014-0060