The paper explores conceptualisations of work-based learning, knowledge and
practice. It sets the discussion in its socio-economic context, one in which
knowledge is seen as the route not only to societal competitiveness but also to
wellbeing. Such arguments emphasise the turbulent environment in which work
is set as well as the fluidity and rapidity in the transformation of knowledge. The
paper examines the different ways in which knowledge is conceptualised within
these debates, arguing that transformation is frequently set on a capitalist terrain
rather than being tied to a radical political project.