From training program to training pathway: Thinking integrative work-study programs based on observations of a retraining program for market gardening

Abstract

The term ‘pathway’ seems to be gradually gaining ground over ‘dispositif’ (program) in adult education (Dayan and Tallard, 2017). In this text, we study the dialectical relationship between these terms within integrative work-study programs. Our paper is based on observing a work-study training program for future market gardeners. Most participants are retraining and do not have an agricultural background (Paranthoën, 2021; Gazo, 2023). They also face personal, social, economic, and political challenges. Our main argument is that future market gardeners, by actively reshaping the prescribed work-study program, not only address these challenges but also continue to develop the work-study program itself through its practical use (Rabardel, 1995).

Keywords: individualization, integrative alternation, training path, training program, work situation.