The learner used an informal approach in his work practice he has the opportunity towards asking his colleagues for support at work as well as documenting some of his duties using a reference guide and use of mobile phone application One Note. He also writes his own diary of events that he uses as part of his reflective practice. Case 2 I observed an apprentice resolving a printer issue for a customer. This opportunity allowed me to capture his mannerism over the telephone with a customer and examine his communication technique as well as his technical guidance towards troubleshooting the printer as this customer was off site. He was fully engaged with the process as he captured information online using the company’s helpdesk tool and agreed with the customer the timeframe of completing the task. He also carried out troubleshooting methods via the server and ensured all jobs were cleared also spoke with the customer to keep her informed of any situations that occurred. He also tested with the customer to print a test page and this printed successfully. Case 3 Arrived at employer and the apprentice at the last moment was given a task by his manger to complete for a customer. He was unsure about the task so he liaised with his supervisor and his colleagues on how to address the situation. This related to resolving a computer monitor issues where the contents were not displaying on the screen. He tried to switch the cable and also checked the ports at the back of the screen. He decided to attempt to investigate the PCU itself. He decided to test the ram by replacing it with a new one problem still persist then attempted to replace the video card and the contents displayed. Throughout the whole process he kept the customer informed about the situation. He also used the opportunity to reflect on the situation on how he can improve the situation he will try and improve his knowledge on hardware by reading further on IT Tech websites he will also try and shadow his colleagues further to learn further troubleshooting techniques. Summary Overall this investigation as provided a good insight on how apprenticeships has evolved today and to understand how apprentices are adapting to changes within their work environment. There are potential opportunities arising towards higher apprenticeships. This area is still needs further development and overall it is essential that all parties need to be realistic in their approaches whilst delivering apprenticeship programmes.
References 2010 Graeme Hall, Hugh Joslin and Jill Ward- Developing Higher Apprenticeships in England Lifelong Learning Networks National Forum Policy Paper 2007 Tangaard Learning at trade vocational school and learning at work: boundary crossing in apprentices’ everyday life 2002 Billet S Emerging Perspectives On Work Place Learning
Carla George Warwick University April 2007