C/HR/276. Dissertation. Examining the Effectiveness of Apprenticeships within the German Electronics Sector

The dissertation examines the effectiveness of apprenticeships and on-the-job training as informal methods of human resource development (HRD) focusing on Germany, where apprenticeships and on-the-job training are historically popular. Literature is reviewed on the theory of HRD, human capital management (HCM), on-the-job training, apprenticeship, etc. A case study is conducted of three German electronics firms examining whether they would be most effective in adopting a productivity orientation or an investment orientation towards their apprenticeship programs. The methods of research are based on secondary and primary data obtained through questionnaires. Conclusions are made about the effectiveness of the apprenticeship schemes in Germany.