The integration of work process knowledge into human resources development

Abstract

In this contribution the relationship between work process knowledge and human resources development is discussed. The concept of work process knowledge is described as it evolved as an outcome of a research network involving research institutions from 10 European countries (N. C. Boreham, R. Samurçay, & M. Fischer, 2002). Historical origins of the concept are mentioned and different dimensions of work process knowledge are depicted as a topic of ongoing research. How work process knowledge is considered within current research activities focusing on measures of organizational learning is also defined. In this respect, research results from the European research project OrgLearn ("Ways of Organisational Learning in the Chemical Industry and Their Impact on Vocational Education and Training," funded under the Fifth Framework Programme of the European Union and coordinated by the author) are reported. Finally, the implications of the concept of work process knowledge are discussed, which have become apparent in recent developments within vocational education and training in Germany. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.