Learning opportunities

In September 1976 an article was published entitled ‘Technician Training in the Smaller Firm’. This described the development at SATRA of an in‐company training package for pattern cutters, a technician‐type job in the footwear manufacturing industry. A number of techniques are employed, but the package involves extensive use of guided discovery learning, with the trainee's supervisor taking the role of the major resource of knowledge and expertise. Since the publication, we have received a few comments along the lines that ours is a retrograde step to the days of ‘sitting by Nellie’ and discovery learning is used because the knowledge and skills have not been properly analysed. These raise some interesting points which we feel should be discussed. In particular we would take the opportunity to clarify some of the ideas and thinking behind the training strategies involved in the training programme outlined in the previously mentioned article.