Casing the joint: explorations by the insider-researcher preparing for work based projects

Workman, Barbara (2007) Casing the joint: explorations by the insider-researcher preparing for work based projects. Journal of Workplace Learning, 19 (3) . pp. 146-160. ISSN 1366-5626 [Article] (doi:10.1108/13665620710735620)

Preview

PDF Download (175kB) | Preview

Abstract

Purpose – The paper aims to explore factors that impinge on the “insider-researcher” (IR) when undertaking a work-based learning project, which will result in the creation of a context analysis framework.

Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative, interpretative approach with the IR as central to the research process, together with data from students work-based projects, research literature and texts, and an academic advisers' focus group.

Findings – Themes of benefits and constraints identified the organisation, the clients and co-workers and the IR benefiting from work-based projects. The positionality and personal attributes of the IR may be a constraint. Of major consideration are ethical issues arising from the project process. Academics' concerns include student supervision, the impact on the IR, and factors affecting change and project processes.

Research limitations/implications – A small study constrained by the researcher being central to the data and therefore introducing potential bias to the interpretation.

Practical implications – The creation of a context analysis framework as a tool to assist the work-based student, the academic and the workplace in preparing to implement a work-based project.

Originality/value – No similar analysis tool has been published. This can contribute significantly to the work-based curriculum. The issues that concern researchers, academic practitioners and work-based students during a work-based project have not been previously investigated. A good practice guide for projects can result from this.

Actions (login required)

View Item

Statistics

DownloadsShow export options

Export as CSVXMLJSON

Activity Overview

6 month trend

1,621Downloads

6 month trend

636Hits

Additional statistics are available via IRStats2.