Activity theory analysis of training for workplace mentors in apprenticeship degrees

Taylor-Smith, Ella; Smith, Sally

Abstract

Apprenticeship degrees bring the radical possibility of higher education without debt. They also require taking learning off-campus and into the workplace, collaborating with employers on credit-bearing workplace learning, inclusion, and widening access. This study surveyed workplace mentors and university staff about the training universities provide to mentors to support degree apprentices, especially focusing on inclusion. Using Activity Theory (AT), current training was mapped as an activity system, including motivations, format (tools), objectives, guidelines, stakeholders (community), and divisions of labour. Activity systems embody multiple perspectives and interests, developing over time, with the potential for contradictions to become sources of transformative change (Engeström, 2001). The main finding is that few mentors feel they are receiving adequate training for the role, with many not receiving any. The AT analysis highlights the challenges of ringfencing time for mentors and allocating responsibility for appropriate training and inclusion strategies among the collaboration partners.

Citation

Taylor-Smith, E., & Smith, S. (2024, December). Activity theory analysis of training for workplace mentors in apprenticeship degrees. Paper presented at 2024 SRHE International Research Conference, Nottingham

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (unpublished)
• Conference Name: 2024 SRHE International Research Conference
• Start Date: Dec 4, 2024
• End Date: Dec 6, 2024
• Acceptance Date: Aug 15, 2024
• Deposit Date: Aug 19, 2024
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• External URL: https://srhe.ac.uk/civicrm/?civiwp=CiviCRM&q=civicrm/event/info&reset=1&id=703