Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Thesis Format

Monograph

Degree

Master of Arts

Program

Sociology

Supervisor

Adams, Tracey L.

Abstract

In professions, lifelong learning is essential to providing quality and safe services. Certain working conditions, including work intensification due to rationalization and organizational change, may inhibit professionals’ ability to learn on the job. This study adds to the literature surrounding informal learning that occurs on and off the job by exploring the impact working conditions and workplace change have on learning behaviours for nurses in Ontario, through the analysis of survey data. For a sample of nurses working in Ontario in 2016 it is found through a regression analysis that certain working conditions like experiencing discrimination, participating in policy related decisions, an increase in workload, and deciding one’s own working hours increase likelihood of participation in informal learning to enhance organizational or managerial skills and informal learning about employment conditions or workers’ rights related to paid employment. Overall, findings underscore the importance of work conditions in shaping professionals’ informal learning behaviours.

Summary for Lay Audience

In professions, lifelong learning is essential to providing quality and safe services. Certain working conditions, including work intensification due to rationalization and organizational change, may inhibit professionals’ ability to learn on the job. This study adds to the literature surrounding informal learning that occurs on and off the job by exploring the impact working conditions and workplace change have on learning behaviours for nurses in Ontario, through the analysis of survey data. For a sample of nurses working in Ontario in 2016 it is found that certain working conditions like experiencing discrimination, participating in policy related decisions, an increase in workload, and deciding one’s own working hours increase likelihood of participation in informal learning to enhance organizational or managerial skills and informal learning about employment conditions or workers’ rights related to paid employment. Overall, findings underscore the importance of work conditions in shaping professionals’ informal learning behaviours.

Download

Share

COinS