Exploring the Theoretical Gap on Knowledge Work of Knowledge and Skilled Workers in TVET Practices: A Literature Review

This article presents a literature review on the theoretical gap of knowledge work between knowledge and skilled workers. There are two primary reasons for conducting this literature review namely the lack of literature on knowledge work for skilled workers and, the poor understanding of their knowledge requirements. Although the requirements for the Industry 4.0 skilled-workers, knowledge work, and innovation are widely discussed in the literature for white-collar jobs, there are scarcely mentioned for blue-collar jobs. Also, the theoretical gap of knowledge between skilled workers and knowledge workers has not been yet addressed, leading to poor public perception of the role of knowledge work in TVET skilled workers. The findings from this literature review may provide insights into the understanding of the theoretical gap and the role of knowledge work for skilled workers and knowledge workers. Seventy-seven articles were reviewed, and inductive thematic analysis was conducted with ATLAS.ti resulting in three major themes, namely, ‘qualification and employment requirement’, ‘management control’, and ‘theoretical and contextual perspectives. The findings indicate that there are differences in knowledge work identified in two groups of workers, nonetheless, support the conclusion that knowledge works are equally crucial for skilled workers to optimise their role. The findings of this study imply that the role of the two groups of workers could not be described interchangeably within a similar working-class and these findings could be used to create clear distinction in the definition and descriptions of work practices of knowledge and skilled workers within the TVET sectors

Using Illustrations to Make Decisions on the Most Appropriate Qualitative Research Methodology: The Industry 4.0 Scenario

Industry 4.0 is viewed as a complex scenario. This complex scenario could be interpreted using illustrations such as sketches or drawings. Ideally, sketches and drawings are useful in illustrating complexity and multiple abstracts from observed social reality. The use of illustrations allows novice qualitative researchers to explore observed social reality in depth with less linear insight. However, few scholars mention the use of illustrations at the research planning stage because most sketches and drawings have been used as tools during data collection, merely to understand an interviewee's perspective. Therefore, this article aims to demonstrate the use of illustrations as a tool to facilitate the research process from problem identification to the selection of the qualitative research methodology. Five specific purposes of illustration that significantly contribute to the body of knowledge for effective decision making and are useful tools in delivering information are demonstrated in this article. Based on the illustrations demonstrated in this article, the most appropriate qualitative research methodology is the case study. Overall, the proposed use of illustrations can assist a novice qualitative researcher in determining the appropriate epistemological and ontological stances - as well as their methodology and method - more effectively

The Best Practices of Mcdonald’s Malaysia: A Case Study of the National Dual Training System

The National Dual Training System (NDTS) was officially launched in February 2018 and there are five NDTS-approved McDonald’s practical training locations at the early implementation of the NDTS. By 2025, 450 McDonald’s Malaysia restaurants are expected to expand, adding 10,000 jobs to the current workforce of 12,000 employees. Based on the increasing number of employees and positive implementation of the NDTS program in McDonald’s Malaysia, this study aimed to explore the best practices of McDonald’s Malaysia in the context of NDTS. Methodologically, a qualitative approach was employed in this study by conducting a group discussion with the McDonald’s personnel, document analysis (such as news, annual reports, and websites) and a literature review. From the thematic analysis, the findings highlight the best practices of McDonald’s Malaysia and the positive implications of the NDTS implementation. A review of McDonald's training and skill development around the world provides additional support for the findings. Significantly, this study contributes to promote the best practices of McDonald’s Malaysia, the positive image of McDonald's Malaysia and the positive implications of NDTS in supporting skills development in Malaysia

Exploring technician competency requirements in industry 4.0 apparel shop floor production

The high reliance on advanced technology in the manufacturing sector in the era of Industry 4.0 is expected to neccesstate new competency that is not yet adequately understood. Futhermore, no clear requirement on technician competency within the context of Industry 4.0 and therefore, requires extensive research to understand the technician competency requirements in Industry 4.0. This study explores the necessary competency requirements for the thechnician in Industry 4.), specifically in apparel shop floor production. Methodologically, aqualitative case study was conducted in two apparel companies. Sixteen participants, including technicians, managers, production personnel and Industry 4.0 experts, were approached using participant observation, semi-structured interviews and document analysis techniques. Based on the thematic analysis, the findings reveal three insights: the transition process in Industry 40.. eight categories of technician competency based on current requirements and four categories of technician competency based on future requirements for the transition process in Industry 4.0. Significantly, clear technician competency requirements are provided as a source of reference to help manufacturers and technical, vocational education and training (TVET) providers and policymakers better understand the role of technician and technician and their necessary competencies within the context of Industry 4.0

Exploring the theoretical gap on knowledge work of knowledge and skilled worker in TVET practices : a literature review

This article presents a literature review on the theoretical gap of knowledge work between knowledge and skilled workers. There are two primary reasons for conducting this literature review namely the lack of literature on knowledge work for skilled workers and, the poor understanding of their knowledge requirements. Although the requirements for the Industry 4.0 skilled-workers, knowledge work, and innovation are widely discussed in the literature for white-collar jobs, there are scarcely mentioned for blue-collar jobs. Also, the theoretical gap of knowledge between skilled workers and knowledge workers has not been yet addressed, leading to poor public perception of the role of knowledge work in TVET skilled workers. The findings from this literature review may provide insights into the understanding of the theoretical gap and the role of knowledge work for skilled workers and knowledge workers. Seventy-seven articles were reviewed, and inductive thematic analysis was conducted with ATLAS.ti resulting in three major themes, namely, ‘qualification and employment requirement’, ‘management control’, and ‘theoretical and contextual perspectives. The findings indicate that there are differences in knowledge work identified in two groups of workers, nonetheless, support the conclusion that knowledge works are equally crucial for skilled workers to optimise their role. The findings of this study imply that the role of the two groups of workers could not be described interchangeably within a similar working-class and these findings could be used to create clear distinction in the definition and descriptions of work practices of knowledge and skilled workers within the TVET sectors