EDF6801 - Learning at work in the knowledge economy

Leader(s): Dr A Devos

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2009 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

In this unit we consider changes occurring in the nature of work across different industries and cultures and their implications for understanding workplaces as learning environments. We explore the ways in which even the most modest local workplaces are shaped by global movements of capital, people and ideas, and at the impact of information and communication technologies on work. We think about working knowledge, how it has been traditionally understood and how those understandings might have changed in the 'knowledge economy'. We consider different approaches to workforce education with a particular focus on mentoring as a popular workforce pedagogy.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit, participants should have; 1) Demonstrated a critical understanding of key concepts such as globalisation and knowledge economy, 2) Identified the role of information and communication technologies in shaping work and learning , 3) Understood key concepts in workplace education, in particular, mentoring, 4) Critically analysed the contexts of workforce education, 5) Explored how their own work context and practices may be influenced by their place in global and local economies.

Assessment

Literature review 4,000 words (50%); and Case study on a workplace learning initiative 4,000 words (50%)

Contact hours

3 hours per week