ERIC Number: EJ1059470
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2015-May-5
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2046-9012
EISSN: N/A
Becoming an Expert: Developing Expertise in an Applied Discipline
Kuhlmann, Diane Orlich; Ardichvili, Alexandre
European Journal of Training and Development, v39 n4 p262-276 May 2015
Purpose: This paper aims to examine the development of expertise in an applied discipline by addressing the research question: How is professional expertise developed in an applied profession? Design/methodology/approach: Using a grounded theory methodology (GTM), nine technical-tax experts, and three experienced, non-expert tax professionals were interviewed regarding their experience in developing technical-tax expertise. Using GTM procedures, a core concept and variables (categories and properties of categories) were identified. A theory is advanced which explains the interaction of the core concept and the variables. Findings:This theory proposes that expertise in applied disciplines occurs through years of engaging in the high-value, non-routine work. Professionals with an intelligence matched to the discipline and willingness to work hard are more likely to be successful in this non-routine work. Professionals who find the discipline fascinating and who revel in ambiguity are likely to repeatedly seek this non-routine work. Finally, professionals in organizations with complex client issues are more likely to have opportunities to engage in non-routine work. Research limitations/implications: This study proposed a theory related to a very specific profession--tax accounting. Future research would be appropriate to determine whether other applied disciplines have a similar dynamic in developing expertise. Originality/value: Based on existing theories of expertise, this study developed a new theory of how professional expertise is developed in an applied discipline.
Descriptors: Expertise, Grounded Theory, Labor Force Development, Taxes, Predictor Variables, Interviews, Fundamental Concepts, Individual Characteristics, Experience, Attribution Theory
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A