ABSTRACT
Summary: People will need to change their skills and attitudes frequently in post-industrial society, but there are no coherent education or training systems for this. The UK in particular lacks provision and training awareness at managerial level, and many erroneously believe that new technology will decrease training needs. UK provision is patchy at best and the initial training at colleges is not flexible or relevant enough, even when accessible, for updating existing employees. Manufacturers’ or suppliers’ courses do not provide adequate background.
New provision of industrial short courses by colleges is limited by lack of true incentives and relevant resources. But government initiatives have been positive, despite an overall policy that industry should provide its own training. Training grants for employers, Open Tech, PICKUP and Skillcentres are all contributing. Much interest in industry has been aroused by open or distance learning which can provide flexible modules and practical training at the workplace.
