In postindustrial workplaces, training enables new forms of control and surveillance of workers. Corporate culture persuades workers to comply through the rhetoric of empowerment, the promise of belonging and reward, and the rhetoric of valuing differences. (SK)

Reviews competency-based models developed by the Ontario Society for Training and Development, American Society for Training and Development, Australia's National Training Board, and Britain's Training and Development Lead Body. Suggests an integrated approach that identifies knowledge, skills, and attributes underlying performance without rigid…

Although postmodernism suggests multiple realities, the predominant view of workplace learning is that realities are explainable in terms of competency-based standards, uniform syllabi, and narrow beliefs about how learning should be managed and measured. These practices are linked with image, market share, power, and control in enterprises. (SK)