Keywords
Citation
(2014), "2013 Awards for Excellence", Journal of Workplace Learning, Vol. 26 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/JWL-01-2014-001
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
2013 Awards for Excellence
Article Type: 2013 Awards for Excellence From: Journal of Workplace Learning, Volume 26, Issue 1
The following article was selected for this year's Outstanding Paper Award for, Journal of Workplace Learning
"Combating learning"
Anu Jrvensivu
Work Research Centre, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
Pasi Koski
Ruralia Institute, University of Helsinki, Seinä joki, Finland
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to look at workplace learning through research into
sociology of work. It explores the "learning discourse" at work place level looking for possibilities to
oppose learning.
Design/methodology/approach – This paper is based on case studies conducted at six
workplaces. The data on the cases include interviews and observation and three of the cases can
be characterized as being based on action research.
Findings – In light of the case studies, learning at workplaces shows up as action and discourse
that is quite interest-laden and contested. Employers demand learning but employees find ways to
oppose these demands.
Practical implications – In the planning of measures that support workplace learning it is important
to identify general structures and trends of working life, as well as the different interests at the
workplace. In this way, a situation can be avoided in which adult educators and their activities are
used as weapons in campaigning for some groups’ interests.
Originality/value – The article’s distinctive feature lies in its critical approach to workplace learning
through in-depth data sets. It explores further so-called positive learning discourse and its
implications at different kind of workplaces and to different kind of personnel groups.
Keywords Dismissals, Finland, Learning discourse, Multiskilling, Resistance, Sociology of work,
Workplace learning
http://www.emeraldinsight.com/10.1108/13665621211191078
This article originally appeared in Volume 24 Number 1, 2012 Journal of Workplace Learning
The following articles were selected for this year’s Highly Commended Award
"Not learning in the workplace: austerity and the shattering of illusio in public service work"
Helen Colley
This article originally appeared in Volume 24 Number 5, 2012, Journal of Workplace Learning
"Integrating research-based and practice-based knowledge through workplace reflection"
Per Nilsen
Gunilla Nordström
Per-Erik Ellström
This article originally appeared in Volume 24 Number 6, 2012, Journal of Workplace Learning
Outstanding Reviewer
Professor Tara Fenwick