The factors influencing the effectiveness of workplace learning are not always obvious. This section investigates issues relating to how individuals see themselves and their role, how they want others to see them and how 'skills' equate with the attributes most valued by employers.

Identity and vocational learning

Identity gives people a sense of who they are and vocational learning also contains a sense of what people may become.

Aesthetic Labour

Many employers are now stressing the importance of employees' personal characteristics, such as 'looking good and sounding fine'. What are the consequences of this trend?

Developing identities: nurses, engineers and accountants

One task facing newly qualified professionals is how to integrate several different kinds of knowledge, gained from education and work, into their ways of working.

Evolving identities: radiographers

Newly qualified radiographers face a daunting challenge of how to reconcile learning while working as their work and identities evolve.

A European study on Identities at work: the FAME Project

A recent European research project (FAME 1999 - 2003) examined changes in work-related identities across seven European countries.

Using a personal scorecard to reflect upon your identity in and out of work

A personal scorecard can be used to check whether your values align with those of colleagues and the organisation you work for and enables you to reflect upon your identity.