Prasanwan, Jiraporn (2005) Workplace Learning for Faculty Professionals in the Changing Thai University Context: A Case Study of Sripatum University, Chonburi Campus. Other Degree thesis, Victoria University.

Abstract

This study investigated the workplace learning of faculty staff at Sripatum University, Chonburi campus, Thailand. It is set in the context of significant change in Thai education and government legislation to improve the quality and standards of education at all levels. The aim was to improve teaching performance and to develop a model for workplace learning and the improvement of teaching quality in the university. The study was conducted in two phases: the first involved a survey of all campus staff asking what aspects of teaching have improved, what sources of help contributed to their teaching improvement and what they would like to improve in future and how this might be achieved. The second phase represented both an action phase and the trial of a change strategy. It involved the selection of 6 staffs from those willing to participate, covering the range of teaching disciplines, and ranges of teaching experience. Staff met regularly once or twice per month as an action learning set, to examine each individual's learning experience and to offer support and critique. Data were collected through observation, field notes, individual journals, and through faculty documents. Three cycles were completed following which an evaluation was conducted based on group and individual interviews. The data are presented through narrative and through interpretation of the development of learning and the effectiveness of the process. Data were also used to construct a model of workplace learning for Sripatum University. Survey and action learning results indicated that effective lecturers' workplace learning encompass both formal an informal approaches for supporting ongoing lecturer learning. Participation in on the job learning and reflection and discussion with colleagues were most valued as an effective contribution to learning in the workplace. The workplace learning model of lecturers' development to improve teaching is a mediated process of learning focusing on the integration of practical and theoretical knowledge, classroom practice and professional dialogue with colleagues. In the current Thai higher education context and context of Sripatum University, the workplace learning model can also be described as a process of professional socialization wherein lecturers and their colleagues share understanding, purposes and values as well as build interdependencies that complement or supplement the formal learning of university.

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