Book excerpt: This text describes, analyses and synthesises a wide range ofcontemporary issues from research and practice in the field ofindividual and collective workplace learning and development. Enables students and managers of learning and development(L&D) to understand the theory and practice of L&D inorganizations. Explores the concept of learning from a variety of perspectivesthrough the use of examples of research and practice from all overthe world. Takes a broad view of learning as encompassing both explicitand implicit and individual and collective learningprocesses. Argues that the practice of L&D should be based upon arigorous theoretical and empirical base. Each chapter uses synopses of research studies and case studiesfrom businesses to illustrate the most important theories, conceptsand models. Lists of key concepts, knowledge outcomes, ‘perspectivesfrom practice’, ‘perspectives from research’,discussion points (for individual or class use), and conceptchecklists to benefit both students and teachers. Is illustrated throughout with diagrams, tables and‘L&D facts and figures’.