Title: Lessons from apprenticeship for policy on competence in technical know-how

Authors: Francis W. Wolek, James W. Klingler

Addresses: Villanova University, College of Commerce and Finance, 800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085-1678, USA. ' Villanova University, College of Commerce and Finance, 800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085-1678, USA

Abstract: Technical know-how is a critical part of the competence of technology-based companies. However, management policies on know-how are difficult to formulate when its definition is limited to a vague accretion of tacit knowledge. Equally dangerous is basing policy on a belief that know-how is the same as trade secrets. We found a more useful understanding of know-how development in the ages-old institution of apprenticeship. The focus of that definition is on skilful work processes that novices can observe and practice. Management policies grounded on this process perspective concern: strategic definition of needed skills, selection of work processes to build those skills, and exchanges of know-how in collaborative R&D.

Keywords: competence development; skills development; know-how; apprenticeship; tacit learning; technology; continuing education; tacit knowledge; collaborative R&D; research and development; collaboration.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCEELL.1999.030136

International Journal of Continuing Engineering Education and Life-Long Learning, 1999 Vol.9 No.1, pp.10 - 19

Published online: 11 Dec 2009 *

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