Education and training that meets the needs of small business: A systematic review of research
Authors:
Susan Dawe, Nhi Nguyen
Publication date: 
4 May 2007
Publication type:
Research report
Theme:
Industry and employers > Small business > General
ISBN:
978 1 921170 85 0 print; 978 1 921170 91 1 web
Small businesses account for the great majority of businesses and half the private sector employment in Australia, but only one third provide structured training for their employees. This study, a systematic review of existing research, set out to find clear evidence of intervention strategies that meet small business needs in relation to the provision of information, skills and knowledge in the training arena. The review shows that strategies which match the way small business learns are more successful than direct or formal training. Small business learns 'through doing', with the focus on real issues in the workplace and learning through social networks.