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orientation on activity theory (Chaiklin/Hedegaard/Jensen 1999; Engeström 1987, 2001,
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acting and reflecting. According to Engeström we consider learning as expansive
development which is brought about through contradictions in daily work and the need to
change mindsets. We will refer to two case studies in medium sized firms in the technology
and automotive supply industry in Germany. Using qualitative methods of social research
(participatory observation, interviews, data analysis) we have analyzed the work and
learning activity of production systems. We have described the current demands of the
inherent contradictions in the operational work activity. Furthermore, we describe
contradictions between the requirements of work and the actual learning methods. Based on
these results we develop a platform model of collaborative learning and development.
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