Apprenticeship learning in an automotive garage in Wakiso District

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to explore the organization and process of apprenticeship learning in one automotive garage in Wakiso district. The study was guided by three research questions namely; How is apprenticeship learning organized in an automotive garage?; What form of pedagogic relationship exists between apprentices and Masters (Trainers) in the automotive garage, and what factors influence apprenticeship learning in an automotive garage? The study used the multiple case study design employing qualitative methods of data collection specifically ethnographic observations and interviews. Data was collected from one automotive garage involving three masters and six apprentices. Of the apprentices, two were novices in the apprenticeship, two were in middle stage of the apprenticeship and two were final stage apprentices. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis technique and was presented through direct quotation, paraphrasing of responses and narrative descriptions of responses as obtained through observation and interviews. The study found out that apprenticeship learning was organized through observation, coaching and practice. The pedagogic relationships between the masters and apprentices were generally friendly and cordial. However, the pedagogic relationship between Masters and apprentices varied depending on the apprentices’ phase in the apprenticeship; apprentices in the final phase related much more closely and freely with the Masters relative to the mid phase and novice apprentices. The factors that promoted apprenticeship learning included more exposure to learning opportunities, mentorship into the trade /craft, individual attention by masters and collaborative learning among apprentices while inadequate/limited exposure, negative attitude of apprentices, inadequate skilling in handling vehicles with advanced technologies, inadequate tools and equipment and personal differences among apprentices constrained apprenticeship learning. The study recommends that more apprentices should be encouraged to join automotive garage and that government gives support to apprenticeship learning in automotive garage and other trades and crafts in order to improve on the skills development to promote self-employment and livelihoods among youths.