Professional socialisation: an influence on professional development and role definition

Professional socialisation refers to the acquisition of values, attitudes, skills and knowledge pertaining to a profession. This article reviews the definition and conceptualisation of professional socialisation through anticipatory and formal professional socialisation processes. It describes the core elements of professional socialisation such as knowledge acquisition, investment and involvement. The article concludes with models and frameworks of professional socialisation with reference to higher education.J South African Journal of Higher Education Vol. 21 (7) 2008: pp. 826-84