November 14, 2004
Learning Without Lessons
"Summary
This report presents the main findings, conclusions and recommendations from a study investigating informal and unstructured learning in small firms. The Learning and Skills Development Agency (LSDA) conducted this research in collaboration with the Small Firms Enterprise Development Initiative (SFEDI) between September 2002 and August 2003. The project invetigated : Informal methods of learning, Links between informal and formal learning, Whether informal learning could be structured, recorded and assessed without changing its essential nature and The support needs of people providing learning within small firms. Given the size of informal learning as a subject, the project was able only to scratch the surface of these issues. However, the findings may be of interest to policy makers and organisations providing learning and support for small businesses, and indicate areas for further, in-depth research."