Promoting learning in the rescue department

A community of practice perspective

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3384/rela.2000-7426.5297

Keywords:

workplace learning, communities of practice, technology, firefighters

Abstract

The modern digitalised workplace requires continuous learning to maintain the skills and knowledge required for civil protection work. The purpose of this study is to identify the primary factors that enable learning in the rescue department. Data was collected in semi-structured interviews with firefighters and fire officers from a Finnish rescue department. The results of the study show that peer support and learning preference are valued across organisational ranks. Technology has a crucial role as it disrupts workflows and necessitates new work requirements, while serving as a tool in social interactions, learning and knowledge management. The findings contribute to research on workplace learning through the development of communities of practice for civil protection workers, emphasising the need for collaboration and adaptive strategies for learning in the workplace.

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Author Biography

Filip Sever, Kajaani University of Applied Sciences and University of Lapland

Filip Sever is a Project Manager at Kajaani University of Applied Sciences, Finland. He works on research and development projects within the civil security sector. The projects include the development and testing of technologies to enhance situational awareness, reduction of risks, and enhanced mission management for workers in the rescue department. Sever is also a doctoral researcher at the University of Lapland. The research focus is on the civil protection experts’ workplace learning within the context of digital transformation.

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Published

2025-05-09

How to Cite

Sever, F. (2025). Promoting learning in the rescue department: A community of practice perspective. European Journal for Research on the Education and Learning of Adults. https://doi.org/10.3384/rela.2000-7426.5297

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