This study describes and analyzes the nature of skill acquisition process in one indigenous, informal training system--the apprenticeship of the wayside mechanics workshops in Koforidua, Ghana. Chapter 2 places apprenticeships training in the wider context of artisanship and training. It traces the history of the West African craft shop and its apprenticeship and identifies and assesses the influence of factors internal and external to the small workshop. Chapter 3 describes the workshop in its urban context and its social organization of work. The apprenticeship agreement and the background of apprentices and masters are discussed. Case studies of master and apprenticeship mechanics are included. Chapter 4 analyzes data collected from observation, interviews, and observation instruments. Results of assessment of apprentice skill competence through self-reports and administration of a mechanics skill test are used to evaluate the effectiveness of training in fostering diagnostic skills and higher-order theoretical understanding. Chapter 5 discusses implications for building nonformal education programs around indigenous learning systems and considers supplementary skill training programs to upgrade skills of practicing artisans. Suggestions are given for designing such improvement programs, and a recently implemented program in Koforidua is described. (Assessment forms are appended.) (YLB)