ABSTRACT
The normative activity that takes place in workplaces. It is argued that it is difficult to sharply differentiate normative beliefs in terms of attitudes and values; that values are socially derived; and that societal values undergo change over time. Theoretical approaches arising from the concepts of settings, communities of practice and activity systems are discussed. Rokeach, values are taken to be a desirable mode of behaviour or end-state, guiding actions, attitudes, judgements and comparisons across specific objects and situations. J. Lave and E. Wenger argue that the possibilities for learning in such communities of practice are defined by the social structure, power relationships and conditions of legitimacy. Moreover, exploration of values in settings is important because of the ways in which it helps to make transparent the functions and purposes of the setting and the activity within it-an important ingredient in making meaning.
