Learning in the professional workplace: relationships between learning factors and contextual factors

Evidence was collected from a set of two visits (several months apart) to 16 trainee accountants, 34 graduate trainee engineers and 40 newly qualified nurses. Each visit involved 1-2 days observation and an interview. Analysis led to a two-triangle model depicting the relations between the key variables: a triangle of interacting Learning Factors -- confidence and commitment, the challenge and value of the work, feedback and support; and a similar triangle of interacting Context Factors – allocation and structuring of work, encounters and relationships with people at work, individual participation and expectations of their progress and performance. Particular attention is given to the role of “helpful others” in the workplace: how this depends on the nature of working relationships in particular contexts; and the relative merits of designated helpers and shared responsibility for helping newcomers