ERIC Number: EJ1089763
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2014
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1448-0220
EISSN: N/A
Learning for Work and Professional Development: The Significance of Informal Learning Networks of Digital Media Industry Professionals
Campana, Joe
International Journal of Training Research, v12 n3 p213-226 2014
Informal learning networks play a key role in the skill and professional development of professionals, working in micro-businesses within Australia's digital media industry, as they do not have access to learning and development or human resources sections that can assist in mapping their learning pathway. Professionals working in this environment would need to adopt an informal learning approach to their skill and professional development by utilising their social and business networks. The paper describes the theme of this research and how it aligns with previous research and other relevant studies. It presents relevant theories and perspectives of informal learning and the role of social learning. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with digital media professionals to understand how they manage their ongoing skill and professional development, and to explore what role informal learning networks play in their development. Through the interviews the study found these professionals utilised a mixture of online technologies and face-to-face engagement in communities of practice in order to maintain their industry currency.
Descriptors: Professional Development, Semi Structured Interviews, Foreign Countries, Professional Personnel, Informal Education, Social Networks, Communities of Practice, Socialization, Computer Networks, Role
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Australia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A