Participative Research on the Transfer of Laboratory Training

Abstract

This study rests on the assumption that training and research activities can be interdependent and mutually enhancing. Concepts about transfer of laboratory training and "participative research" methodology were used to develop a training and research design in which the two activities were closely integrated. The design made use of a variety of dual-purpose mechanisms to facilitate the transfer process and to provide data for an exploratory study. Results suggested that success in training transfer was related to specific goal-setting, development of support systems, and the gap between laboratory and "real world" cultures, and that "participative research" produced a flow of information that was high in quantity and quality. The effort to Integrate training and research appeared in this case to enhance both. Implications for further "synergic" combinations of research and action are considered.