Higher qualifications in new work structures—development and testing of new industrial qualification procedures

Abstract

Work structures and technical innovations which simultaneously mobilize the capabilities and skills of the individual employees to prevent dequalification make new demands on the qualification process. Training for more complex activities can therefore no longer be carried out using unsystematic forms of instruction consisting of demonstration and imitation

Rather it is essential to apply systematic training methods aimed at the creation of a sensorimotor and cognitive regulatory basis. These processes not only mobilize thought and planned activity, but also have a positive effect on output. Training methods which promote personality are, however, ineffective as long as no corresponding work structures with freedom of activity are made available, which allow the opportunity for higher qualification—or at least stabilize the qualification level. But work structuring alone does not guarantee the subjective exploitation of new freedom of activity. Vocational training measures can contribute to freedom of activity being not only used, but also greatly promote development of the personality.