Guest Editor's introduction

Purpose - The purpose of this editorial is to outline the historical and conceptual context in which the research into workplace learning as a research field is emerging. Design/methodology/approach - The paper in an essayistic knowledge sociology perspective parallels developments in the nature of work and the growing interest in human resources, and hence learning. It confronts the general stereotypes of work with the actual multiplicity of different work domains. Findings - The actual sample of articles is characterized briefly, drawing attention to the epistemological value of concrete studies of different learning experiences in different types of work. Originality/value - The perspective of the editorial is mainly to spur the reflection of researchers in the field to the interrelation between theoretical issues and practical engagement in learning enterprises.